[Arteriovenous malformations: clinical aspects and evolution].

Arteriovenous malformations are rare high-flow malformations. As other malformations, they are present at birth but may remain quiescent for many years; their flow may speed up quickly consequently on an infection, traumatism or modification of the hormonal climate. A "nidus" appears in the heart of the malformation which acts as a real "turbo" on the blood flow; vascular shunts appear creating ulcerations (vascular steal phenomenon); cardiac failure may be observed. Among all vascular anomalies, arteriovenous malformation is the most dangerous in its evolution which may be fatal. Its control requires prudence and skill.