We are a unique group working throughout the UK offering free, patient friendly information and support to all whose lives have been affected by rare condition Arteriovenous Malformation.

What is an AVM?

An Arteriovenous Malformation is often referred to as an AVM. It is a tangle of abnormal blood vessels (arteries and veins).

AVMs can occur anywhere in the body; however brain AVMs (also known as cerebral AVMs) are of special concern because of the damage they can cause when they bleed. They are very rare and occur in less than 1% of the general population(1). AVMs that occur in the covering of the brain are called dural AVMs.

The cause is not known. AVMs are thought to be due to abnormal development of blood vessels during fetal development. An AVM is not inherited or infectious. An AVM is not a cancer, which means that it cannot spread to other parts of the body. Brain AVMs have usually been there since birth.

Dural AVMs are an exception in that they may be caused by injury. AVMs can occur in people of any race or sex in almost equal proportions.

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NB Figures in brackets refer to sources of reference. For further information see related pages below.