Vascular Malformation – Journey Through a Rare Disorder
Yashas Ashili
Cypress Ranch High School, Cypress, Texas, USA
Publication date: November 20, 2025
Cypress Ranch High School, Cypress, Texas, USA
Publication date: November 20, 2025
DOI: http://doi.org/10.34614/JIYRC2025II44
ABSTRACT
Vascular Malformations (VM) are rare congenital disorders. The science behind them and clinical management are still evolving. After I was diagnosed with a VM, I limited my physical activity – by quitting my favorite sport. It was disappointing but I realized there are many other patients whose Quality of Life (QoL) is severely impacted. VMs are simply twisted veins or arteries that reduce blood flow. It results in inflammation, pain and in some cases external deformities. Diagnosis is a multi-level process involving visiting different specialists. In my case, it started with doctors from Family Medicine, Sports Medicine, Oncologist and finally a VM specialist. The International Society for the study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) lists less than 50 specialists across the US. Fortunately, Houston has one such clinic. This is a common theme across rare disorders - limited scientific knowledge and limited clinical accessibility resulting in emotional challenges for patients and families.
Vascular Malformations (VM) are rare congenital disorders. The science behind them and clinical management are still evolving. After I was diagnosed with a VM, I limited my physical activity – by quitting my favorite sport. It was disappointing but I realized there are many other patients whose Quality of Life (QoL) is severely impacted. VMs are simply twisted veins or arteries that reduce blood flow. It results in inflammation, pain and in some cases external deformities. Diagnosis is a multi-level process involving visiting different specialists. In my case, it started with doctors from Family Medicine, Sports Medicine, Oncologist and finally a VM specialist. The International Society for the study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) lists less than 50 specialists across the US. Fortunately, Houston has one such clinic. This is a common theme across rare disorders - limited scientific knowledge and limited clinical accessibility resulting in emotional challenges for patients and families.
