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Current Medical Student Summer Research Fellows

·	Current Medical Student Research Fellows

Eric Arias Preceptor: E. Sander Connolly Jr., MD Institution: Columbia University The pathogenesis of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) is generally considered to be abnormal angiogenesis during the embryonic period. Although involvement of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) has been studied in surgically removed AVMs and cavernous malformations, in vivo levels of VEGF in patients receiving treatment for these vascular abnormalities have not been studied. To explore the underlying mechanisms of these malformations, we intend to study the levels of VEGF in vivo by measuring blood plasma levels in patients undergoing treatment for these vascular abnormalities. Standard local procedures for treating AVMs and cavernous hemangiomas will be followed. For embolization/resection patients, we will draw blood prior to embolization, after embolization but before surgery, 24 hours following surgery, and one month following surgery. The samples will be analyzed to provide us with preliminary data on how VEGF levels are involved in the pathogenesis of AVMs and cavernous hemangiomas. In addition, histopathological analysis will be conducted on the excised AVM.