Arachnoid cysts are fluid sacs that develop between the skull, brain or spinal cord and the membrane call the arachnoid membrane. They are not tumors. Our NeuroTexas neurosurgeons are trained to diagnose and treat arachnoid cysts.
Cerebrospinal fluid surrounds and protects the brain. If the arachnoid membrane is damaged cerebrospinal fluid may get trapped and form a cyst. As more fluid gets trapped the cyst will grow. In adults men are more likely than women to develop an arachnoid cyst.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the cyst and some may not cause any symptoms at all.
May include:
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizures
- Hearing or vision symptoms
- Balance issues
- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
Diagnosis
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Treatments
Some patients without significant symptoms may not require surgery however left untreated the arachnoid cyst may continue to grow and place pressure on the brain resulting in severe neurological damage. Your neurosurgeon will determine and discuss with you if surgical intervention is recommended for your unique condition or if simply observation is the best choice.
The goal of surgery is to drain the cyst and prevent it from refilling.
References: American Association of Neurological Surgeons, National Institute of Neurological Disease and Stroke.
