Q28: Other congenital malformations of circulatory system

Q28.3: Other malformations of cerebral vessels

Other malformations of cerebral vessels (Q28.3) refers to a range of rare, typically congenital (meaning present at birth) conditions that affect the blood vessels in the brain. These abnormalities can involve arteries, veins, or capillaries, and can take on various forms, including aneurysms, fistulas, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and cavernous malformations. Symptoms often vary considerably and depend on the specific type of malformation and its location. Some individuals may experience no symptoms, while others may have headaches, seizures, or neurological issues such as difficulty speaking or moving. In severe cases, these vascular abnormalities can lead to life-threatening events like stroke. These conditions are usually detected through diagnostic imaging techniques such as CT scans or MRI brain scans. The exact cause of these malformations is still unclear, but both genetic and environmental factors during fetal development may play a role.