Arteriovenous Fistulas of the Lungs

Abstract

Two cases of pulmonary arteriovenous fistula (or aneurysm) are presented, one of which is reported in detail. Twenty-three other cases of pulmonary arteriovenous aneurysm or fistula previously reported in the American literature are reviewed, and the clinical, laboratory, radiologic, physiologic, pathologic and hereditary features of this condition discussed. Clubbing of the fingers and toes, polycythemia and cyanosis are almost constant findings. The imnportance of differentiating this condition from polycythemia vera and congenital heart disease is emphasized.