Incidentally Detected Renal Arteriovenous Malformation: a Case Report and Review of the Literature

Renal arteriovenous malformations and fistula are an uncommon, underdiagnosed condition that can be asymptomatic. However, there is a real risk of rupture and severe bleeding. Imaging techniques have a critical role in planning the treatment. Arteriography is the gold standard but is invasive. Diagnostic selective arteriography can be followed by embolisation of the lesion during the same procedure. Although invasive, because of the potential risk for rupture, arteriography is the elective technique when intervention is planned. We report a rare case of an adult male patient incidentally diagnosed with arteriovenous malformation. Since he had no prior history of renal intervention or trauma, a diagnosis of idiopathic renal arteriovenous malformation was made. We describe the computed tomography findings and management outcome. This asymptomatic, though potentially lethal, condition can be treated with minimally invasive methods.