Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) is a congenital tangle of abnormal blood vessels connecting arteries and veins, which bypasses the normal capillary system. While commonly referred to simply as an Arteriovenous Malformation, it is also clinically documented as an arteriovenous shunt or vascular malformation of the central nervous system or peripheral tissues, depending on its anatomical location. What are the common synonyms and historical names for AVM? Medical literature uses several terms to describe an Arteriovenous Malformation.
2 people with Arteriovenous Malformation AVM have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.
Arteriovenous Malformation AVM synonyms
Other names for Arteriovenous Malformation AVM: synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) is a congenital tangle of abnormal blood vessels connecting arteries and veins, which bypasses the normal capillary system. While commonly referred to simply as an Arteriovenous Malformation, it is also clinically documented as an arteriovenous shunt or vascular malformation of the central nervous system or peripheral tissues, depending on its anatomical location.
What are the common synonyms and historical names for AVM?
Medical literature uses several terms to describe an Arteriovenous Malformation. While "AVM" is the standard abbreviation, you may encounter terms such as arteriovenous angioma, cirsoid aneurysm, or racemose aneurysm in older medical texts. In international clinical settings, it is often categorized under the broader umbrella of "vascular malformations" or "high-flow vascular anomalies." These historical names reflect early attempts to describe the appearance of the lesion rather than its underlying hemodynamics.
Why does Arteriovenous Malformation have multiple names?
The nomenclature for an Arteriovenous Malformation has evolved alongside our understanding of vascular biology. Historically, these lesions were often grouped with tumors (hemangiomas), but modern classifications—such as the ISSVA (International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies) system—now distinguish an Arteriovenous Malformation as a distinct "high-flow" lesion. This differentiation is critical because the treatment protocols for an Arteriovenous Malformation differ significantly from those used for venous or lymphatic malformations.
How is AVM classified in medical systems?
Standardized coding systems are used by healthcare providers to ensure consistency in diagnosis and research. Key identifiers include:
- ICD-10: Q28.2 (Arteriovenous malformation of cerebral vessels) and Q27.3 (Peripheral arteriovenous malformation).
- Orphanet: ORPHA:118 (Arteriovenous malformation).
- OMIM: Often referenced under specific genetic syndromes associated with vascular anomalies, such as Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT).
Next steps
- Consult with a neurosurgeon or interventional radiologist who specializes in vascular anomalies to confirm your specific diagnosis.
- Join the 200 members of the DiseaseMaps.org Arteriovenous Malformation community to share experiences and find support.
- Request a copy of your imaging reports (MRI/MRA or Angiography) to discuss the specific hemodynamic classification with your specialist.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the advice of a physician regarding a medical condition.
References
- Orphanet: ORPHA:118 - Arteriovenous Malformation.
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center - AVM.
- International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) Classification.
- OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man) database entries for vascular anomalies.
Posted Jul 5, 2020 by Mary 2500
Posted Nov 3, 2022 by Heather 5020
