Figure 1: Axial T1, T2, and SW images reveal a “popcorn” lesion within the left postcentral gyrus demonstrating heterogenous T1 and T2 signal accompanied by hypointense rim of blooming artifact (hemosiderin) typical of a cavernous malformation.

Overview

Cavernous malformations are benign vascular hamartomas consisting of dysplastic immature vascular channels with variable mass effect depending on size. Though nearly always angiographically occult, these lesions may be dynamic in their behavior over time with evidence of hemorrhagic products of mixed stages, and may present with acute parenchymal hemorrhage. Presentation may include seizure (up to 50%), focal neurologic deficit (25%), and asymptomatic/incidental (20%).

Imaging

• General Characteristics
  • Masses of immature, cavern-l...