A neonatal case of pial arteriovenous fistulas and the review of literature

Pial arteriovenous fistulas (PAVFs) are extremely rare vascular malformations of the brain, and associated with greater morbidity and mortality in neonates and infants. We reported a neonatal case of giant multi-hole PAVFs presented with heart failure and local brain atrophy. The challenges associated with the complexity, outcome and therapeutic options of neonatal PAVFs was discussed. In addition, a review of the published literature on cases of PAVFs diagnosed at neonatal age, over the last two decades, was performed. Comprehensive prognostic evaluation and an optimal treatment strategy offered by a multidisciplinary team at specialized centers should be assured for each case affected.