Pulmonary arteriovenous fistula: diagnosis, interventional therapy and clinical progress.

Pulmonary Arteriovenous Fistula (PAVF) is a rare type of pulmonary vascular malformation, resulting in right-to-left shunting (RLS) due to an abnormal connection between the pulmonary artery and the pulmonary vein. Approximately 80%-90% of congenital PAVF cases are associated with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), which can cause complications including hypoxemia, stroke and brain abscesses. Its clinical manifestations are associated with lesion size, blood flow volume, number of lesions, patient age and hormonal status, with a notably elevated risk of complications and rupture during pregnancy. Some patients have no symptoms, while severe cases may present with cyanosis and decreased activity endurance. In imaging examinations, computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) is the preferred non-invasive diagnostic method. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) can make a definitive diagnosis and assist in treatment. Interventional treatment is currently the preferred treatment option for PAVF. By using embolic materials such as coils, vascular plugs, and occluders to block abnormal blood flow, this method is employed. This article provides a review of the current research status of PAVF.