Do intracranial arteriovenous malformations cause subarachnoid haemorrhage? Review of computed tomography features of ruptured arteriovenous malformations in the acute stage.

Computed tomography features of ruptured arteriovenous malformations in the acute stage were reviewed. Intracerebral or intraventricular haemorrhage was the major finding, and primary subarachnoid haemorrhage was disclosed to be rare. This observation supports the concept that arteriovenous malformations should not be included in the main pathological conditions causing subarachnoid haemorrhage. This information is of value in identifying the source of intracranial haemorrhage in patients with the coexistence of an arteriovenous malformation and an aneurysm, and provides a significant guideline for treatment.