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Electromyographic Abnormalities Associated with Symptomatic Sacral Tarlov Cysts.
Mieke Hulens1, Frans Bruyninckx2, Wim Dankaerts1
1Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Research Unit, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Summary
Tarlov cysts (TC) are often overlooked causes of pain and neurological issues. Electromyography can help diagnose symptomatic TC, even smaller ones, suggesting they are more common than previously believed.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Tarlov cysts (TC) are frequently overlooked as a source of sacral and ischial pain, alongside urogenital and bowel dysfunction.
- Despite being visible on MRI, TC, particularly smaller ones, are often presumed asymptomatic, leading to diagnostic challenges and controversy regarding their clinical significance.
Observation:
- This study presents three case reports of patients with symptomatic sacral cysts, including giant and smaller variants.
- Electromyographic (EMG) testing was utilized to demonstrate nerve damage associated with these cysts.
Findings:
- EMG testing of sacral nerve roots can be a valuable diagnostic tool for symptomatic TC.
- The study confirmed that even small cysts, less than 1 cm, can induce nerve damage, challenging the notion that only larger cysts are problematic.
Implications:
- Symptomatic TC may be more prevalent than currently recognized.
- Diagnosing TC through EMG can differentiate them from other causes of sacral and ischial pain, improving patient outcomes for chronic neuropathic pain.
