Spinal arachnoid cyst

Mechanism and manifestations

Some cysts are incidental; others cause pain, gait change or cord signs. They differ from facet synovial cysts and Tarlov perineural cysts.

Diagnosis and management

MRI identifies location and effects on the cord or roots. Monitoring may suit an asymptomatic finding; symptomatic compression may prompt neurosurgery. Neurological worsening requires prompt reassessment.

Points to consider

These conditions may produce progressive or acute signs and need targeted investigation. Standard MRI does not always provide all required information; specialists select additional tests. New motor deficits, loss of sphincter control or rapid deterioration need immediate assessment.

Role of TAGMED care

This condition first requires medical diagnosis and, depending on the situation, specialist management. TAGMED services do not replace treatment of infection or tumor, stabilization of an unstable injury, or neurological or vascular treatment. Any conservative support should be considered only after diagnosis, restrictions and the treating team’s recommendations have been clarified.

Related concepts and distinctions

These concepts belong to the same field, but are not synonyms.

• Spinal cerebrospinal fluid leak — Escape of cerebrospinal fluid from its usual spinal compartment through a dural defect or certain abnormal communications.
• Spinal arteriovenous malformation — Abnormal arteriovenous connections within or around the spinal cord that may cause bleeding, congestion or impaired perfusion.
• Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula — Abnormal connection between an artery and a vein near the spinal dura that may cause venous congestion of the cord.

Medical references

1. OpenStax, Rice University. Anatomy and Physiology 2e — The Central Nervous System.
2. American College of Radiology / RSNA, RadiologyInfo. Spine MRI.

References document the topic; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of TAGMED services by those organizations.