Arachnoid cysts

Abstract

First described in 1831, arachnoid cysts are cerebral spinal fluid-filled spaces lined with arachnoid membrane. They account for 1% of all intracranial space occupying lesions and can also be found rarely in the spinal column. Most intracranial arachnoid cysts are found in the middle cranial fossa with a male predilection and a slight preponderance for the left side. With the availability of modern imaging, many more arachnoid cysts are being picked up incidentally in asymptomatic patients. However, symptomatic arachnoid cysts are predominantly found in the paediatric population with patients typically presenting with headaches, rapid head growth, developmental delay, and seizures. Treatment of patients with asymptomatic arachnoid cysts has typically been conservative management with surgery only considered in patients with symptoms. Surgical management remains controversial and includes open techniques, endoscopic fenestration of cyst, or shunting procedures.