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Arachnoid cyst with growth hormone deficiency
Aycan Unalp1, Ceyhun Dizdarer, Aysel Ozturk
1Behçet Uz Child Disease and Surgery Education and Research Hospital, Montrö-Izmir, Turkey. aycanunalp@mynet.com
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|April 3, 2007
Summary
Arachnoid cysts can affect endocrine function, not just the nervous system. This case highlights a large arachnoid cyst causing growth retardation and poor growth hormone response in a child.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
- Radiology
Background:
- Arachnoid cysts are typically linked to neurological issues.
- Their role in endocrine disorders is not well-understood.
- Endocrine dysfunction can manifest in various ways, including growth problems.
Observation:
- A seven-year-old boy presented with seizures and growth retardation.
- Neurological examination was unremarkable.
- Hormonal tests indicated an impaired growth hormone response.
Findings:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed a large arachnoid cyst.
- The cyst caused a significant shift in the pituitary gland (hypophysis).
- This structural abnormality correlated with the observed endocrine dysfunction.
Implications:
- Arachnoid cysts should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pediatric growth failure.
- This case underscores the potential link between structural brain lesions and hormonal imbalances.
- Further research is needed to explore the neuroendocrine effects of arachnoid cysts.
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