How is an AVM of the brain diagnosed?
Brain AVMs can be diagnosed with various methods, with the most non-invasive techniques being CT and MRIS scans. Both reveal lesions, while CT scans are particularly helpful in showing hemorrhaging. Three dimensional representations of cerebral AVMs can be detected by CT and MRI imaging. A more intricate process in identifying an AVM of the brain involves angiography. A contrast agent, or water-soluble dye, is injected into the brain allowing an x-ray to deliver more precise images that highlight blood vessel structure. This procedure carries the risk of causing a stroke, but research has led to vast improvements with angiography thereby reducing stroke potential.
