![]() ![]() There are three membranes covering these components of the central nervous system: dura mater, arachnoid, and pia mater. (For more information on these conditions, choose the specific cyst or tumor name in the Rare Disease Database.)Īrachnoid cysts are fluid-filled sacs that occur on the arachnoid membrane that covers the brain (intracranial) and the spinal cord (spinal). These cysts and tumors may cause compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots. This group includes meningeal diverticula, meningoceles, neurofibromas, schwannoma, and arachnoid cysts. Various cysts and tumors may have similar symptoms to those associated with Tarlov cysts. Comparison of symptoms may be useful for a differential diagnosis. Symptoms of the following disorders can be similar to those of Tarlov cysts. More research is necessary to understand the underlying mechanisms that ultimately cause the development of Tarlov cysts or the onset of their symptoms. Some reports suggest that individuals with connective tissue disorders are at a greater risk of developing Tarlov cysts than the general population. In many cases, individuals with asymptomatic Tarlov cysts developed symptoms following trauma or activities that raise cerebrospinal fluid pressure such as heavy lifting. Because Tarlov cysts contain cerebrospinal fluid, researchers have speculated that normal fluctuations in CSF pressure may lead to an increase in cyst size and a greater likelihood of developing symptoms. The connection may remain or eventually close, after allowing cerebrospinal fluid to leak out and cause a cyst. Some researchers believe that an abnormal congenital connection (communication) exists between the subarachnoid space, which contains cerebrospinal fluid, and the area surrounding the affected nerves (perineural region). Several theories exist including that the cysts result from an inflammatory process within the nerve root sheath or that trauma injures the nerve root sheath and causes leaking of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) into the area where a cyst forms. The exact cause of Tarlov cysts is unknown. Some individuals demonstrate progressive thinning (erosion) of the spinal bone overlying the cyst. Tenderness or soreness may be present around the involved area of the spine.Īdditional symptoms have been reported in the medical literature including chronic headaches, blurred vision, pressure behind the eyes, dizziness, and dragging of the foot when walking due to weakness of the muscles in the ankles and feet (foot drop). Changes in sexual function such as impotence can also occur.Īffected individuals may also develop abnormal burning or prickling sensations (paresthesias) or numbness and decreased sensitivity (dysesthesia), especially in the legs or feet. Some individuals may have difficulty empting the bladder and constipation has also been reported. Affected individuals have also reported vulvar, testicular, rectal, pelvic and abdominal pain.īecause Tarlov cysts can affect the nerves, symptoms relating to loss of neurological function can also develop including leg weakness, diminished reflexes, loss of sensation on the skin, and changes in bowel or bladder function such as incontinence or painful urination (dysuria). Pain may worsen when coughing or sneezing. In some cases, pain can also affect the upper back, neck, arms and hands if the cysts are located in the upper spine. In some individuals sitting or standing may worsen pain recumbency may relieve pain. Pain may be worsened by walking (neurogenic claudication). Pain from lumbo-sacral cysts may affect the lower back, especially below the waist, and spread to the buttocks and legs. The specific symptoms and their severity vary from one individual to another and with location along the spinal column.Ĭhronic pain is a common with symptomatic Tarlov cysts. However, Tarlov cysts can grow in size eventually compressing or damaging adjacent nerve roots or nerves contained within the cyst (radiculopathy). Many cases of Tarlov cysts are not associated with symptoms (asymptomatic). 5 Myths About Orphan Drugs and the Orphan Drug Act.Information on Clinical Trials and Research Studies. ![]()
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