Arteriovenous Malformations
This is the only vascular pathology of the spinal cord that is frequently seen in children.
It is mostly found along the thoracic segments, the dorsal part being primarily involved.
Affected children may manifest the following symptoms:
– low back pains
– progressive gait difficulties
– bladder and bowel dysfunctions
– increasing deep tendon reflexes
– extensor plantar responses and sometimes a sensory level
The neurologic signs may be due to compression of the anterior spinal artery by the vascular mass.
AV malformation is suspected if X- rays of the spine reveal erosion of the pedicles or calcifications.
Affected children should be under the care and management of specialists like pediatric neurologists and neuro surgeons.