What is an arachnoid cyst? It’s a cyst formed out of arachinoid membrane material that’s filled with trapped cerebrospinal fluid. The arachinoid membrane is one of three membranes that cover your brain and spinal cord.
Most arachnoid cysts are present at birth. However, they can develop after a head injury, brain or spinal infection (meningitis), brain or spinal tumor, and brain surgery.
Arachnoid cysts symptoms largely depend its size and location. A cyst that puts pressure on your brain, spinal cord or nerve root will likely result in some combination of these symptoms:
- vertigo
- seizures
- paralysis
- weakness
- headaches
- nausea, vomiting
- balance problems
- change in behavior
- leg, arm paresthesia
- progressive back, leg pain
- hearing, vision disturbances
Some with an arachnoid cyst will have no symptoms because its development fails to apply significant pressure on any part of your central nervous system. In fact, you could have one for years without knowing it because nothing indicates its existence.
Treatment for an arachnoid cyst that causes no symptoms is frequently cautious watchful waiting. Treating those who experience symptoms is typically surgical drainage of fluid. Membrane removal is a treatment option, but this method may not be used because the risk of injury to your brain or spinal cord is too great.
If your arachnoid cysts is putting pressure on surrounding tissues, then not having it treated can result in permanent neurological damage.
