What are Tarlov cysts?
What are the symptoms of Tarlov cysts?
How are Tarlov cysts diagnosed?
How are Tarlov cysts treated?

What are Tarlov cysts?

Tarlov cysts (also known as perineural cysts or sacral nerve root cysts) are fluid-filled sacs that most often affect nerve roots in the sacrum, the group of bones at the base of the spine. These cysts can compress nerve roots which leads to symptoms. Tarlov cysts may become symptomatic following shock, trauma, or exertion that causes the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid. Women are at much higher risk of developing these cysts than are men.

What are the symptoms of Tarlov cysts?

By putting pressure on the nerves in the lower back, Tarlov cysts can cause a variety of symptoms, including back pain, sciatica (shock-like or burning pain in the lower back, buttocks, and down one leg), urinary incontinence, sexual dysfunction, and some loss of feeling or control of movement in the leg and/or foot.

How are Tarlov cysts diagnosed?

In addition to a thorough medical history and physical exam, imaging methods, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to confirm the presence of a Tarlov cysts. This imaging modality uses a strong magnetic field (not x-rays) and radio waves to generate signals from tissue that are then interpreted by a computer which creates pictures of the tissue being scanned, and differentiates between bone, soft tissues and fluid-filled spaces by their structural properties. This noninvasive procedure can show the presence of a Tarlov cyst and rule out other causes for the symptoms. Generally, no additional testsing is necessary.

How are Tarlov cysts treated?

Tarlov cysts may be drained by needle through the skin to relieve pressure and pain, but relief is often only temporary and fluid build-up in the cysts will recur. Corticosteroid injections over the involved nerve may also temporarily relieve pain. Other drugs may be prescribed to treat chronic pain and depression that is associated with the pain and disability that can be caused by the cyst. Surgical removal may be needed when the cysts cause continued pain or progressive neurological problems.