Cavernoma

/ˌkæv.ərˈnoʊ.mə/ noun

Definition

A benign vascular malformation or tumor characterized by abnormal blood vessels forming a cavity-like structure, often found in the brain.

Etymology

From Latin 'caverna' (cavern) plus Greek '-oma' (suffix for tumor or abnormal growth); literally a 'cavern-tumor' or cavity-like tumor.

Kelly Says

Brain cavernomas are sometimes called 'vascular time bombs'—stable for years then suddenly causing seizures, fascinating doctors because they understand so little about why they behave unpredictably.

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