Spinal arteriovenous fistula coexisting within a spinal lipoma: report of two cases.

A literature search revealed only nine other similar case reports. All cases, including ours occurred in adults. In almost all cases, the shunt was located within the spinal lipoma. Pathologic examination revealed venous hypertension, but no evidence of congenital vascular malformation. Given that lipomas release angiogenic factors, the presence of a spinal lipoma may indicate its involvement in the development of acquired sAVF. Our two cases might represent a new subtype of sAVF. Based on our experiences, we recommend resection of the tumor containing the shunt for the management of sAVF.