ABSTRACT

Spinal vascular pathologies are rare diseases that can lead to devastating outcomes. However, early diagnosis and treatment can be life-changing for the patient. While ischemia and hemorrhage present with acute onset symptoms, vascular malformations show insidious and progressive deterioration. Cavernous malformations may exhibit episodic symptoms. Therefore, detailing clinical findings, taking an appropriate medical history, and accurately evaluating imaging findings are essential for correct diagnosis. Although magnetic resonans imaging (MRI) is the primary imaging modality for diagnosis, diffusion-weighted imaging should be added if ischemia is suspected, and MR or computed tomography angiography should be included if aneurysm or vascular malformation is suspected. Especially in vascular malformations, spinal angiography is the gold standard for diagnosis and treatment. Endovascular methods are the first-line treatment options for these pathologies.