Dorsal arachnoid web: A rare clinical entity.
Claire Allen1, Shiavax J Rao1, Rafi Raza2
1Department of Medicine, MedStar Health Internal Medicine Residency Program, Baltimore, MD, United States of America.
Clinical Imaging
|February 26, 2022
Summary
Dorsal arachnoid webs are rare spinal conditions causing herniation and neurological symptoms. Diagnosis involves imaging, with management tailored to individual patient needs, including surgical or conservative options.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Dorsal arachnoid webs are rare malformations of the arachnoid mater.
- These webs can lead to spinal cord herniation and significant neurological deficits.
- Common presenting symptoms include back pain and compressive myelopathy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe two cases of dorsal arachnoid webs.
- To highlight the diagnostic imaging approaches for arachnoid webs.
- To illustrate the differing management strategies for these rare spinal conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of two clinical cases with dorsal arachnoid webs.
- Analysis of diagnostic imaging, including CT myelogram and MRI.
- Comparison of surgical and conservative treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Both cases presented with symptoms consistent with spinal cord compression.
- Imaging confirmed the presence of dorsal arachnoid webs.
- Management approaches varied, leading to different clinical outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Dorsal arachnoid webs require careful diagnostic evaluation using advanced imaging.
- Management strategies should be individualized based on clinical presentation and imaging findings.
- Further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols for dorsal arachnoid webs.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Cranial and Spinal Meninges
1.8K
The cranial and spinal meninges are complex protective structures surrounding the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain and spinal cord. These meninges consist of the dura mater, the arachnoid mater, and the pia mater. They protect the CNS, provide structural support, and aid in circulating cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Cranial Meninges
These meningeal layers cover the cranium. The dura mater is the outermost layer of cranial meninges. It is a thick and durable membrane of dense...
Cranial Meninges
These meningeal layers cover the cranium. The dura mater is the outermost layer of cranial meninges. It is a thick and durable membrane of dense...
1.8K
01:30Aneurysm I: Introduction
36
An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
36
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
42
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
42
01:16Spinal Cord: Cross-sectional Anatomy
2.6K
The cross-sectional anatomy of the spinal cord offers a detailed view of its complex structure and function within the central nervous system. At the core of the spinal cord lies the gray matter, characterized by its butterfly or "H"-shaped appearance in cross-section. This central region is enveloped by white matter, with the overall structure divided into symmetrical halves by the dorsal median sulcus and the ventral median fissure.
Gray Matter and its Components
Central to the gray matter is...
Gray Matter and its Components
Central to the gray matter is...
2.6K
01:16Vascular Spasm
2.2K
The vascular phase, also known as vasospasm, is the initial stage of hemostasis, crucial for preventing excessive bleeding when a blood vessel is injured. After a vessel is cut, nerves in the damaged area trigger pain and other sensory impulses. Simultaneously, the smooth muscles in the vessel wall contract, resulting in a vascular spasm. This contraction reduces the vessel's diameter at the injury site, slowing or stopping blood loss through the vessel wall. Vascular spasms typically last...
2.2K
01:15Spinal Cord: Gross Anatomy
3.9K
The spinal cord resides within the protective confines of the vertebral column. It is the main pathway for information traveling between the brain and the body. It plays a fundamental role in nearly all bodily functions, from simple reflexes to complex motor movements. The spinal cord begins at the medulla oblongata at the base of the brainstem and extends downward, terminating at the conus medullaris near the first and second lumbar vertebrae. The spinal cord's length in adults is...
3.9K