Arachnoid cyst

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Arachnoid Cyst

Arachnoid cysts (/əˈræknɔɪd ˈsɪst/; from Greek arachne, "spider" + eidos, "form") are cerebrospinal fluid covered by arachnoidal cells and collagen that may develop between the surface of the brain and the cranial base or on the arachnoid membrane, one of the three meninges that cover the brain and the spinal cord.

Causes

The exact cause of arachnoid cysts is unknown. They are usually present at birth (congenital) and may occur anywhere in the brain. Arachnoid cysts can also be caused by head injury, meningitis, or tumors, or as a complication of brain surgery.

Symptoms

Most arachnoid cysts are asymptomatic and do not cause symptoms. However, if a cyst grows, it can cause symptoms due to pressure on the brain. Symptoms may include headache, nausea and vomiting, seizures, hearing and visual disturbances, vertigo, and difficulties with balance and walking.

Diagnosis

Arachnoid cysts are often discovered incidentally during an MRI or CT scan of the brain performed for other reasons. If symptoms are present, the diagnosis can be confirmed with imaging tests that can show the location and size of the cyst.

Treatment

Treatment for arachnoid cysts depends on whether they are causing symptoms. Asymptomatic cysts may simply be monitored with regular imaging tests. If a cyst is causing symptoms, treatment options include surgery to drain the cyst or remove it.

See also

References

External links

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