Q&A

What is Weber Rendu syndrome?

What is Weber Rendu syndrome?

Persistent bleeding from the nose and the intestinal tract can result in severe iron deficiency anemia and poor quality of life. Also known as Osler-Weber-Rendu disease, hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a genetic disorder that you inherit from your parents.

Can hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia be prevented?

Although current treatment cannot stop telangiectasias or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) from forming, many of the symptoms and complications associated with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) can be treated or prevented.

How did Osler Weber Rendu syndrome get its name?

Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome (OWR) is also known as hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). It’s a genetic blood vessel disorder that often leads to excessive bleeding. The name Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome is named for the doctors who worked on researching this condition in the 1890s.

What kind of tests are done for Osler Weber Rendu?

A blood test can check for anemia, or iron deficiency in the blood. A CT scan can show internal AVMs, such as in the lungs, liver, and brain. A gastrointestinal doctor can insert a small camera down your throat to check for AVMs in your esophagus. This is called endoscopy.

How does Osler Weber Rendu affect the lungs?

When AVMs form in the lungs, they can affect lung function. A person with a lung AVM may develop shortness of breath. They may cough up blood. Serious complications from lung AVMs also include strokes and infections in the brain.

How often do nose bleeds occur with Osler Weber Rendu?

Nosebleeds may happen daily or as rarely as twice per year. When AVMs form in the lungs, they can affect lung function. A person with a lung AVM may develop shortness of breath. They may cough up blood. Serious complications from lung AVMs also include strokes and infections in the brain.