Arteriovenous malformation of the oral cavity

Abstract

Vascular anomalies are a heterogeneous group of congenital blood vessel disorders more typically referred to as birthmarks. Subcategorized into vascular tumors and malformations, each anomaly is characterized by specific morphology, pathophysiology, clinical behavior, and management approach. Hemangiomas are the most common vascular tumors. Lymphatic, capillary, venous, and arteriovenous malformations make up the majority of vascular malformations. Arteriovenous malformation of the head and neck is a rare vascular anomaly but when present is persistent and progressive in nature and can represent a lethal benign disease. Here we present a case report of a 25-year-old male patient with arteriovenous malformation involving the base of tongue.

Figure 1

Intraoral photograph showing swelling with bluish discoloration in floor of the mouth with intact overlying mucosa.

Figure 2

Plain radiograph revealing no bony involvement, but phleboliths can be noticed.

Figure 3

MRI showing hyperintense T2-weighted images with no flow voids.

Figure 4

Photomicrograph showing the presence of large cavernous spaces lined by endothelial cells [10X].