Rapid spontaneous resolution of lumbar ganglion cysts: A case report

To discuss the rare event of spontaneous resolution of a lumbar ganglion cyst, a personal case report and 25 cases culled from the literature were described in detail. We focused on demographic, classification, clinical and radiological findings, treatment, outcome and radiological resolution.

A 51-year-old man presented to our observation with complaints of low back and right leg pain. Lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). showed a L4-L5 ganglion cyst. The patient was referred to medical therapy and bracing. After 4 wk, he showed a complete resolution of pain. The complete spontaneous resolution of the cyst was demonstrated by the followed-up MRI.

Spontaneous resolution of lumbar ganglion is very rare and only 26 cases, including ours, were reported in literature. Different degrees of biomechanical impairment seem to play a fundamental role in the pathogenesis. Related symptoms are essentially represented by low back and/or radicular pain, without significant neurological disorders. Anti-inflammatory drugs, light unloading exercises and brace could be recommended to administrated pain and decrease facet loads. Mean time for clinical improvement was 7 mo, while MRI disappearance occurred in an average time of 11 mo. Therefore, surgery should be applied when conservative treatment, prolonged at least 6 mo, fails.