Intrasellar Arachnoid Cyst Research Articles

Symptomatic intrasellar arachnoid cyst: Case report

A case of a large symptomatic intrasellar arachnoid cyst with suprasellar extension is reported. A 53-year-old man was admitted because of decreased visual acuity. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a large intrasellar cyst extending into the suprasellar cistern, with compression of optic nerves. The intensity of the cyst was identical to that of the surrounding subarachnoid space on both Tl-, T2-, and proton density-weighted images. Transsphenoidal surgery was performed, but subsequent refilling of the cyst required additional transcranial surgery. Analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid-like cystic fluid revealed high levels of protein and pituitary hormones. Histological study revealed that the cyst wall was composed of connective tissue and arachnoid cells, which were ultrastructurally characterized by a number of desmosomes. Diagnostic, surgical, and pathological features of intrasellar arachnoid cysts are discussed.

Microsurgical anatomy of the pituitary gland (hypophysis cerebri) and the sellar region. Part three: The meninges

AbstractThe diaphragma sellae, the pituitary foramen, and the perisellar arachnoid were studied in cadaver sphenoid blocks. Special attention was paid to the dissection of the perforated arachnoid membrane (of Lilliequist). Results were compared with observations made during surgery and with data reported in the literature. The pathophysiology of the intrasellar arachnoid diverticulum, the empty sella syndrome, and the intrasellar arachnoid cyst are discussed. Precise knowledge of the microsurgical anatomy and anatomic variations of the dura mater and arachnoid is imperative for a safe trans‐sphenoidal approach to the hypophysis cerebri (pituitary gland) and transcranial approach to the sellar region.

Intrasellar arachnoid cysts

Thirteen pathologically documented intrasellar arachnoid cysts treated by transsphenoidal cyst excision and marsupialization were analyzed. Presenting