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Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome



Circulatory system
Circulatory system


Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome

Alternative Names:

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia
Treatment:

Bleeding in vital areas must be corrected surgically. Frequent or heavy nosebleeds (epistaxis) may be treated with electrocautery or laser surgery. Large collections of abnormal blood vessels (arterio-venous malformations) in the lungs may be deliberately clotted off in a procedure called coiling, which is performed by an interventional radiologist.



Some patients respond to estrogen therapy, which can reduce bleeding episodes. Blood-thinning medications should be avoided. Some patients may need to take antibiotics during simple dental or surgical procedures. Ask your doctor what precautions you should take.


Support Groups:

HHT Foundation International, Inc. www.hht.org; 800-448-6389


Expectations (prognosis):

Barring a fatal intracranial hemorrhage, this syndrome is compatible with a normal lifespan. Many patients do not know that they have this condition until a family member is diagnosed with it.


Complications:
  • Internal hemorrhaging
  • Marked increased risk for nose bleeds
  • Coughing up blood
  • Increased risk for strokes and infections of the brain
  • Heart failure
  • Shortness of breath
  • High blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if your child has frequent nose bleeds or other signs of this disease.




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