Spinal arachnoid cyst among Nigerians

Abstract

Spinal arachnoid cysts are rare spinal mass lesions. The pathogenesis is as yet poorly understood but the aetiology can be congenital or secondary to a number of infective and non-infective conditions. They can be extradural or intradural in location. They are characterized by a wide range of clinical manifestations, from asymptomatic lesions to severe myelopathy. Asymptomatic cysts can be managed conservatively while surgery is indicated in symptomatic cases. The operative technique of choice is complete excision of the cyst. The outcome is mainly related to the duration of symptoms, hence the need for early diagnosis and prompt treatment. In this study, we present the clinical profile and outcome of management of four operated cases of spinal arachnoid cysts in a tertiary hospital in Southwestern Nigeria.