Tarlov cysts are fluid-filled nerve root cysts found most commonly at the sacral level of the spine – the vertebrae at the base of the spine. These cysts typically occur along the posterior nerve roots. Cysts can be valved or no valves. The main feature that distinguishes Tarlov cysts from other spinal lesions is the presence of spinal nerve root fibers within the cyst wall or in the cyst cavity itself.

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TARLOV CYST

Synonyms:
sacral, lumbar, thoracic or cervical nerve root cysts.
perineural cysts. (But not all)

Types:
Spinal Cyst
Perineural Cyst

SYSTEMS AFECTED

Muscular system
Urinary system

Symptoms

Back pain
Leg pain
Numbness in extremities
Vaginal/rectal pain
Pain in the area of the nerves affected by the cysts, especially the buttocks.
Weakness of muscles.
Difficulty sitting for prolonged periods.
Loss of sensation on the skin.
Loss of reflexes.
Changes in bowel function, such as constipation.
Rupture. When Tarlov cysts are ruptured or drained they cause leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). ... An undetected rupture can cause intracranial hypotension, including orthostatic neurological symptoms along with headache, nausea, and vomiting that improve when supine.

Treatments

Pain control
Surgery

Specialist who treat it

Neurosurgery

Tarlov Cyst stories


MY TARLOV NIGHTMARE


My nightmare began with an accident while on duty in March 2011. I was the passenger in a motor vehicle when the accident happened. After having an MR I scan done it was reported that I have multiple Tarlov cysts on my spine (too many to count). I ...

Views: 2895 by Heidi Sampieri

THE FOREVER STRUGGLE


Hi, I am Lisa. I have has several ct scans and mri's through the years which showed terms such as perinueral cysts, and Tarlov Cysts for many years. When I would ask what they were and if they posed any problem, I would be quickly brushed off and tol...

Views: 1271 by Lisa

MR MYEOLOGRAM WITH INTRACATHEDRAL GADOLIUM


this showed tarlov perineaul cyst through out spine, bilateral nerve sleeve root cysts.maybe cause for my low intracranial pressure.

Views: 1158 Mar 22, 2016, 6:54 PM by Kari

MY LONG STORY.....


When I was pregant at 21, I ended up on STD due to having severe pain in my sciatica - I worked a desk job and could not handle sitting for long periods of time. Even after I gave birth, I had severe lower back pain. I tried everything - chiropractic...

Views: 1136 Dec 9, 2015, 8:32 PM by Jennifer

HOPE.


I fell from a horse 4 years ago landing on my tailbone and after an X-ray they could see I had bent it! After several weeks of chiropractic treatment I was back in the saddle and felt fine. Then in feb 2015 I I had a fall whilst skiing. It was partic...

Views: 1121 by Emma kyte

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Tarlov Cyst forum


TARLOV CYST TREATMENT


What is the best treatment for Tarlov Cyst?

Views: 1241 Feb 1, 2016, 2:43 PM by Carol

DOCTORS


Does anyone know of any doctors around the cincinnati Ohio area that believes tarlov cysts cause pain. 

Views: 721 Dec 6, 2015, 11:07 AM by Vicky

ARE THERE ANY SURGEONS IN NJ OR PA


Views: 534 Nov 30, 2015, 9:48 PM by Karla

ARE THERE ANY DOCTORS IN EUROPE?


Views: 483 Dec 23, 2015, 6:51 PM by Fien

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