Cavernomas
Cavernomas: At a Glance
What it is: A cavernoma is a cluster of dilated abnormal blood vessels (like ‘caverns’) in the brain or spinal cord.
How it affects people: Many cause no symptoms, but some may lead to headaches, seizures, or neurological changes.
Key concern: Cavernomas carry a risk of bleeding, which can sometimes result in a brain haemorrhage.
Diagnosis: Most often identified with magnetic resonance imaging MRI, sometimes after a seizure or scan for another reason.
Treatment options: Cavernoma treatment options include monitoring or surgery depending on symptoms, size, and location.
Outlook: Many cavernomas remain stable and never cause problems. With expert care from a neurosurgeon, those that do cause symptoms can often be managed safely and effectively in the long term.
What is a Cavernoma?
A cavernoma, sometimes called a cavernous malformation in the brain, is made up of clusters of abnormal blood vessels that look like a raspberry. Cavernomas can form in the brain and spinal cord. While some never cause symptoms, others may lead to headaches, seizures, or neurological changes.
Most cavernomas are discovered incidentally on an MRI scan. Although the thought of a cavernoma can be worrying, many can be safely monitored. When treatment is needed, modern neurosurgery provides safe and effective options.
Types of Cavernomas
There are several types of cavernomas:
Brain cavernoma: The most common, occurring in the area of the brain tissue.
Spinal cavernoma: Less common, occurring on the spinal cord.
Multiple cavernomas: Some patients develop more than one, sometimes due to a genetic form of the condition confirmed with genetic testing.
Cavernoma Symptoms
Common symptoms (non-bleeding cavernoma)
Headaches
Seizures
Weakness, numbness, or tingling
Balance or vision problems
Emergency / red flag symptoms (bleeding cavernoma)
Sudden severe headache
Seizures
Sudden weakness, paralysis, or loss of coordination
Speech or vision problems
Seek urgent medical attention or call 999 if you develop these symptoms.
Causes and Who Is at Risk
The exact cause of cavernomas is not fully understood. Some occur sporadically, while others are linked to genetic factors.
Health and Family Factors You Can’t Change
Cavernomas may be inherited, especially if multiple lesions are found or if there is a family history of the condition.
They can occur at any age, though are often diagnosed in adults.
Both men and women can be affected equally.
Having a cavernoma risk factor does not mean you will definitely develop one.
Reducing Your Risk
You cannot always prevent a cavernoma, but you can support brain health and lower complications by:
Controlling high blood pressure
Avoiding smoking and heavy alcohol consumption
Attending regular follow-ups if you have been diagnosed with a cavernoma
Getting a Diagnosis
Cavernomas are usually diagnosed through specialist imaging tests:
MRI scan: The most accurate test for cavernoma diagnosis and management.
CT scan: Sometimes used, especially in emergencies to check for bleeding.
Genetic testing: May be recommended if multiple cavernomas are found in one family.
These tests are highly reliable and allow a brain specialist or neurosurgeon to recommend the safest treatment option depending on the location.
Treatment Options for Cavernomas
Treatment depends on the size and location of the cavernoma, as well as the patient’s overall health. Options include:
Monitoring
Many cavernomas are observed with regular MRI scans if they are not causing symptoms.
Medication
Used to help control seizures or other symptoms.
Surgical Intervention
Some patients may require brain cavernoma surgery if the lesion causes repeated bleeds or disabling symptoms. In these cases, cranial surgery for cavernoma removal may be the most effective approach.
Every patient’s case is reviewed carefully by an experienced team. Mr Kailaya-Vasan, Consultant Neurosurgeon, is an experienced neurovascular surgery specialist in the UK. He specialises in cranial surgery and provides expert care for patients in London, across the UK, and internationally. He works closely with colleagues to ensure the best treatment option is chosen, particularly for cavernomas in a high risk location or causing significant symptoms.
Living with a Cavernoma
Many people with cavernomas live normal lives without symptoms. For those who develop problems, surgery or medication can often help. Outcomes may vary depending on the location of the cavernoma and whether there has been bleeding, but with early diagnosis and the right specialist care, most patients do very well.
Under the care of a consultant neurosurgeon like Mr Kailaya-Vasan, treatment is tailored to each individual, with a focus on safety, precision, and long-term wellbeing.
Book a consultation with Mr Ahilan Kailaya-Vasan
Receive a clear diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan from a leading consultant neurosurgeon. Appointments are available at top London hospitals, with remote options for international patients.
Seeking a second opinion?
If you have already received a diagnosis elsewhere, Mr Kailaya-Vasan can provide an independent review of your scans and medical notes, and explain the safest and most effective next steps.
FAQs about Cavernomas
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Some cavernomas are inherited, particularly when multiple lesions are present, while most occur sporadically. Genetic testing may be considered in cases where an inherited form is suspected.
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No. Many cavernomas are monitored with regular scans. Surgery is usually considered if they cause repeated bleeding or serious symptoms.
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Seek immediate medical attention if you develop a sudden severe headache, seizures, or sudden neurological problems such as weakness, speech difficulty, or vision loss.
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Recovery depends on the size and location of the cavernoma. Some patients recover within weeks, while others may need longer rehabilitation depending on how much surrounding brain tissue is involved.
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No, cavernomas cannot usually be prevented. However, managing blood pressure and avoiding smoking may help reduce the risk of complications.
If you have any further questions, please get in touch.