What causes vein of Galen malformation?

What are the causes of vein of Galen malformation? A VOGM occurs during a baby’s early prenatal development, usually during the first trimester. It is not known exactly what causes a VOGM, but it is likely genetic. VOGM sometimes, but not always, occurs with vascular anomalies that affect other parts of the body.

What does vein of Galen drain?

The main function of the vein of Galen is to drain blood from the superior cerebellum, interpeduncular fossa, inferior horn of the lateral ventricle, parahippocampal gyrus, corpus callosum, midbrain, and choroid plexuses of the third and lateral ventricles.

What is the prognosis for vein of Galen malformation?

Prognosis for Vein of Galen Malformation: The prognosis depends upon how much organ (heart and brain) damage has been done prior to the embolization procedure. The earlier treatment is obtained, the better chances the patient has. Most patients who undergo successful embolization go on to lead normal lives.

What is the pathophysiology of vein of Galen?

Pathophysiology. Vein of Galen malformation (VGAM) results from an aneurysmal malformation with an arteriovenous shunting of blood. The congenital malformation develops during weeks 6-11 of fetal development as a persistent embryonic prosencephalic vein of Markowski; thus, VGAM is actually a misnomer.

When does vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation occur?

Abstract. Vein of Galen aneurysmal malformations (VGAM) are rare congenital vascular malformations characterized by shunting of arterial flow into an enlarged cerebral vein dorsal to the tectum. Most of these malformations present in early childhood, often causing congestive heart failure in the neonate.

Can a vein of Galen be seen on an ultrasound?

A vein of Galen malformation can sometimes be seen on a fetal ultrasound. Ultrasound in the prenatal period often demonstrates the first view of vein of Galen malformation (see Figure 3).