What is a common clinical manifestation of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia?

Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT), also known as Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome, is a genetic disorder that leads to abnormal blood vessel formation. One of the hallmark clinical manifestations of this condition is recurrent nosebleeds, or epistaxis. These nosebleeds occur due to the presence of telangiectasias—small, dilated blood vessels—that form on the mucosal surfaces, including the nasal passages. They are prone to rupture, leading to bleeding, which is often one of the earliest and most noticeable symptoms experienced by individuals with HHT.

The presence of nosebleeds is not only significant for diagnosis but also for management, as patients need to be aware of the risk of bleeding and may require interventions or management strategies to address this symptom. Other clinical manifestations of HHT include arteriovenous malformations in various organs, which can lead to more serious complications if not monitored or managed appropriately, but the recurrent nosebleeds stand out as a typical presentation associated specifically with the condition and often prompt individuals to seek medical advice.