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An expanding cervical synovial cyst causing acute cervical radiculopathy
Masahiko Miwa1, Minoru Doita, Hiroyuki Takayama
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hyogo Prefectural Kakogawa Hospital, Hyogo, Japan.
Journal of Spinal Disorders & Techniques
|July 29, 2004
Summary
A rare case of cervical synovial cyst expansion causing severe radiculopathy is presented. Prompt surgical excision led to a good outcome, highlighting the need for careful management of even small cysts.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Cervical synovial cysts are rare, often linked to degenerative facet joints.
- Symptomatic synovial cysts are exceptionally uncommon despite widespread degenerative spinal disease.
Observation:
- A patient with a small cervical synovial cyst initially presented with mild neck pain and hand numbness.
- Symptoms temporarily resolved with conservative treatment.
- A sudden, severe radiating arm pain developed weeks later, indicating acute cyst expansion.
Findings:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MR) revealed significant enlargement of the synovial cyst.
- The enlarged cyst caused lateral compression of the spinal cord.
- Neurologic examination confirmed C8 nerve root paralysis.
Implications:
- Acute expansion of cervical synovial cysts, though rare, can lead to severe radiculopathy.
- Careful monitoring and consideration of surgical intervention are crucial for managing cervical synovial cysts, regardless of initial size or symptom severity.