[Psychiatric and neuropsychological symptoms in children with arachnoid cysts--a case report]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuropsychology
• Child Psychiatry

Background:

• Arachnoid cysts (AC) are intracranial, extracerebral cysts with varied presentations.
• While neurological symptoms are common, psychological and psychiatric manifestations are less explored, especially in children.
• Literature on psychological problems in children with AC is notably scarce.

Observation:

• A 12-year-old boy presented with a large left temporofrontal AC, without elevated intracranial pressure.
• He exhibited recent-onset psychiatric symptoms including apathy, attention deficits, communication difficulties, aggression, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.
• Neuropsychological assessment revealed slow, hesitant verbal expression despite an upper normal intelligence level.

Findings:

• The presented case details the psychiatric symptoms and neuropsychological findings associated with a large AC.
• The symptoms suggest a potential organic psychosyndrome directly resulting from the arachnoid cyst.
• This case underscores the link between ACs and complex behavioral and cognitive changes.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering ACs in the differential diagnosis of pediatric psychiatric disorders.
• Suggests that ACs can lead to significant neuropsychological deficits and behavioral disturbances.
• Emphasizes the need for further research into the psychological impact of ACs in pediatric populations.