GENERAL OVERVIEW OF ARACHNOID CYSTS

Arachnoid cysts typically produce no symptoms, but if they do occur, the severity and type of symptom depends on the  size and location of the cyst. 

For intracranial cysts, symptoms include:

• headaches
• nausea and vomiting
• seizures
• vertigo
• problems with vision and hearing
• problems with movement and balance

For spinal cysts, symptoms include:

• back pain and scoliosis
• tingling and numbness in legs and arms
• muscle spasms
• paralysis and problems with movement

Diagnosis typically involves brain or spine scans using diffusion-weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) in order to distinguish these fluid-filled cysts from other types of cysts.

It is not possible to prevent arachnoid cysts. Having a family history of arachnoid cysts and certain health conditions, such as arachnoiditis or Marfan syndrome, can increase one's risk for arachnoid cysts.

Typically, if the arachnoid cyst is small, not pressing on surrounding tissue, and not causing symptoms, treatment is not needed. Depending on the size and location of the cyst, surgical treatment might be recommended. 

For intracranial cysts, treatments include:

• Endoscopic fenestration: An endoscope, a tiny tube that includes a camera, is inserted into a small cut near the cyst. Openings are made on the wall of the cyst to allow the cerebrospinal fluid to drain.
• Craniotomy for fenestration: The skull is either opened or partially removed in order to reach the cyst. Small cuts are made in the cyst to allow the cerebrospinal fluid to drain, and the skull is stitched back up.
• Shunting: A shunt, a device made of a tube and a valve, is inserted into the cyst, allowing the cerebrospinal fluid to drain and be absorbed into your abdomen. The shunt remains in place to continue drainage.

For spinal cysts, treatment includes:

• Resection: An incision is made near the cyst and the cyst is removed completely.

If left untreated, symptomatic arachnoid cysts can cause permanent brain damage, severe pain, movement disorders and other serious health complications, including:

• Bleeding: Blood vessels on the cyst wall tears and bleed into the cyst, causing it to grow bigger. A hematoma can form when blood pools outside of the cyst.
• Leaking fluid: A Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Leak can result if the cyst is injured. The fluid can leak into other parts of the brain and can cause severe health problems. 

• Cleveland Clinic 
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
• WebMD