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Multiple spinal arachnoid cysts

Case contributed by Aruna Pallewatte
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Presented with bilateral mild lower limb weakness of 1 ½ months duration with recent onset bowel and bladder incontinence. There is also a preceding chronic back pain for 1 year with no other co-morbidities.

Patient Data

Age: 45 years
Gender: Female

Note: This case has been tagged as "legacy" as it no longer meets image preparation and/or other case publication guidelines.

Cervical and Lumbar spine

mri

The neural canal dilated with multiple lobulated CSF-filled extradural cysts within it. These cysts are seen extending from cervical spine to lumbosacral spine involving the entire spine. Posterior vertebral body scalloping is present. Spinal cord and cauda equina are deviated anteriorly and compressed. Some lesions show early extension through neural foramina.

Case Discussion

Spinal arachnoid cysts are benign, space-occupying lesions that are filled with clear CSF-like fluid and are usually found in the intracranial compartment. Less frequently they are seen in the spine, as in this case. Spinal arachnoid cysts can be classified into Intradural and extradural arachnoid cysts.

(Authors Dr. Aruna Pallewatte, Dr Lasitha Wickremaratne)

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