Computerized tomography findings in dural arteriovenous malformations

Changes in the brain parenchyma and cerebrospinal fluid spaces were demonstrated in three cases of dural arteriovenous malformations by computerized tomography (CT). In various combinations, there were 1) vermiform or patchy enhancement after intravenous contrast infusion, 2) abnormal decreased density mainly in the white matter, 3) local mass effect, 4) hydrocephalus, 5) dilatation of the major venous sinus system, and 6) prominent vascular grooving of the skull inner table. Most of these changes were secondary to raised sinus pressure caused by arteriovenous shunt. It was also demonstrated by serial CT that some elements improved after artificial embolization or surgical excision of the malformations.