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What are Arachnoid Cysts?
Arachnoid cysts are cerebrospinal fluid-filled sacs that may develop between the
surface of the brain and the cranial base or on the arachnoid membrane — one
of the 3 membranes that cover the brain and the spinal cord. Most cases begin
during infancy, however onset may be delayed until adolescence. Symptoms of an
arachnoid cyst are related to the cyst size and location. Small cysts are
usually asymptomatic and are discovered only incidentally. Large cysts may cause
cranial deformation or macrocephaly (enlargement of the head), producing such
symptoms as headaches, seizures, hydrocephalus (excessive accumulation of
cerebrospinal fluid), increased intracranial pressure, developmental delay, and
behavioral changes. Other symptoms may include hemiparesis (weakness or
paralysis on one side of the body) and ataxia (lack of muscle control).
Arachnoid cysts most often occur in males.
Is there any treatment?
Treatment for arachnoid cysts is symptomatic. When symptoms warrant, the
surgical placement of a shunt may be required to decompress (remove pressure
from) the cyst.
What is the prognosis?
Untreated, arachnoid cysts may cause permanent severe neurological damage due to
the progressive expansion of the cyst(s)or hemorrhage (bleeding). With treatment
most individuals with arachnoid cysts do well.
What research is being done?
The NINDS supports research on brain and nervous system disorders such as
arachnoid cysts. The goal of this research is to increase scientific
understanding of these disorders and to find ways to prevent and treat them.
Organizations
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
P.O. Box 1968
(55 Kenosia Avenue)
Danbury, CT 06813-1968
orphan@rarediseases.org
http://www.rarediseases.org/
Tel: 203-744-0100 Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673)
Fax: 203-798-2291
Source: National Institutes of Health; National Institute of
Neurological Disorders and Stroke
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