ABNORMAL ARTERIOVENOUS COMMUNICATIONS, ACQUIRED AND CONGENITAL

Abstract

In the course of my studies of arteriovenous aneurysms the similarity between them and cirsoid aneurysms and simple angiomas was frequently noted. The purpose of this paper is to point out the likeness of these three conditions, and to state my reasons for believing that cirsoid aneurysms and simple angiomas are caused by abnormal arteriovenous communications, and are, therefore, not of the nature of new growths. ABNORMAL ARTERIOVENOUS COMMUNICATIONS Scope of the Term. —The capillary bed is the normal communication between the arterial and venous systems. Without discussion, it may be stated that those conditions to which the term arteriovenous aneurysm is generally applied come under the heading of abnormal arteriovenous communications. This conception of an arteriovenous aneurysm has been accepted ever since the condition was accurately described and its cause recognized by William Hunter.1In passing, it may be interesting to note that both Antyllus2and Albucasis