I am 27 years old and was finally diagnosed with a venous malformation of the left elbow and forearm in Jan. of 2005. This was after at least 12 years of misdiagnoses, ranging from the possiblity of cancer to it just being a “bone bruise”. I finally was able to recieve the correct diagnosis after having an MRI and arteriogram. I was then told that nothing could be done, and to just live with the pain and complications from the VM. And that I should feel lucky that it was only my arm.

Well, I couldn’t live with that and I sought out every bit of information available and found this website among others. As a result of finding this website it lead me to my doctor who was able to help me, I have had 2 treatments of sclerotherapy, which have done wonders. I know that I could still need more treatment.

I know how frustrating this can be and at times how scary it can be. I hope to be able to help others with the same condition.