Arterio-venous malformations are simply arteries or veins that are malformed and usually weakened or have formed an aneurysm. Usually they are not discovered until it becomes symptomatic or a CT scan is done for another reason.

Some of the symptoms of an arterio-venous malformation are stroke, seizure, progressive stroke, headaches, visual disturbances, or death. If the malformation or aneurysm begins to bleed it will produce symptoms of stroke, or if profuse will bring on death. For this reason any symptoms of stroke should be brought to your doctor's attention immediately.

A CT scan will give a diagnosis, however, an MRI will give the doctor a more accurate picture of the size and location of the malformation, and he will then be able to determine the best course of treatment. A Magnetic Resonance Angiogram will most likely be performed during the MRI and will provide the most accurate picture of the artery or vein in a 3D form. After diagnostic testing is performed and a complete picture of the malformation can be seen by the doctor he will then discuss treatment and medications to prevent seizure will most likely be included in this.