Spinal extradural arachnoid cyst in cervicothoracic junction.
Meltem Özdemir1, Rasime Pelin Kavak1, Nuray Gülgönül2
11University of Health Sciences, Dışkapı Yıldırım Beyazıt Training and Research Hospital, Department of Radiology, Ankara, Turkey.
Spinal Cord Series and Cases
|October 22, 2019
Summary
Spinal extradural arachnoid cysts (SEACs) are rare tumors. This case highlights a cervicothoracic SEAC causing compression, emphasizing early diagnosis for effective surgical treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Imaging
Background:
- Spinal extradural arachnoid cysts (SEACs) are rare, accounting for ~1% of spinal tumors.
- They arise from arachnoid membrane herniation through a dural defect, typically in the thoracic or thoracolumbar regions.
Observation:
- This report details an uncommon case of a SEAC located in the cervicothoracic junction.
- The cyst caused significant neurologic compression.
Findings:
- Cervical SEACs are exceptionally rare, representing only 3% of all cases.
- These cysts predominantly affect young men and can lead to progressive compressive symptoms.
Implications:
- Early and accurate diagnosis of SEACs is crucial for preventing neurological decline.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the recommended modality for diagnosis and surgical planning.
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