Vein of Galen Aneurysmal Dilatation in a 14-Month-Old Boy

Abstract

A vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation constitutes a rare vascular malformation. It is more common in the pediatric population, and may account for 30% of intracranial vascular malformations [1]. A vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation may be classified as a “true” vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation or a “false” Vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation [2]. A “true” vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation involves a dilated median prosencephalic vein of Markowsky receiving drainage from multiple arteriovenous shunts. A “false” vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation or vein of Galen aneurysmal dilatation involves an arteriovenous malformation that drains into a tributary of the vein of Galen, resulting in its overload and dilatation. We describe a 14-month-old boy with a vein of Galen aneurysmal dilatation who presented with developmental delay and neurologic deterioration after trivial trauma. His neuroimaging findings are discussed.