Developmental Venous Anomalies

Developmental venous anomalies (DVAs) are the most common type of intracranial vascular malformation, often considered benign and typically discovered incidentally during imaging studies. They are characterized by a network of dilated medullary veins converging into a central draining vein. This summary provides an overview of the radiological and MRI findings associated with DVAs.

MRI and Radiological Characteristics

Detection and Prevalence: DVAs are frequently identified in MRI studies, with a prevalence of about 7.46% in adult populations. They are more commonly found in the supratentorial region, particularly in the frontal lobe, and are often associated with a single draining vein8 9.
Imaging Techniques: MRI with contrast enhancement provides excellent resolution for visualizing DVAs, while CT angiography also offers detailed imaging. However, MR angiography (MRA) is less effective in identifying DVAs8. MRI can depict DVAs without the need for contrast media, making it a noninvasive method for evaluation10.
Associated Findings: In some cases, DVAs are associated with metabolic abnormalities in the adjacent brain tissue, such as hypometabolism, which is more common in older individuals3. Additionally, DVAs can coexist with other anomalies like neuromigrational disorders, including polymicrogyria2.

Complications and Associated Conditions

Parenchymal Abnormalities: In neonates, DVAs can be complicated by parenchymal or ventricular abnormalities, although these often improve over time, suggesting a generally benign nature1.
Intracranial Hemorrhage: Although rare, DVAs can be associated with intracranial hemorrhage, particularly when there is an arterial component or association with arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)6. Thrombosis of the draining vein can also occur, leading to ischemic events7.

Prenatal and Neonatal Imaging

Prenatal Detection: DVAs can be detected prenatally using fetal MRI and ultrasound with Doppler, which can identify echogenic brain lesions and the presence of a collecting vein4 5. These findings can be confirmed postnatally, supporting the congenital nature of DVAs5.

Conclusion

DVAs are common vascular anomalies that are typically benign and asymptomatic. MRI is a valuable tool for their detection and characterization, providing detailed images without the need for invasive procedures. While generally considered inconsequential, DVAs can occasionally be associated with other neurological conditions or complications, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and monitoring.

Results

Neonatal Developmental Venous Anomalies: Clinicoradiologic Characterization and Follow-Up

One-third of neonatal developmental venous anomalies may be complicated by parenchymal abnormalities, especially with multiple and larger collectors.

Observational Study

2020·3Citations·A. Geraldo et al.·

American Journal of Neuroradiology

Developmental venous anomaly in association with neuromigrational anomalies.

Developmental venous anomalies are associated with neuromigrational disorders like polymicrogyria and nonschizencephalic clefts, requiring recognition for prognostication and treatment.

Case Report

2005·9Citations·R. Riel-Romero et al.·

Pediatric neurology

Brain Metabolic Abnormalities Associated with Developmental Venous Anomalies