Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Diagnosed With An Arachnoid Cyst. Having Seizures And Persistent Headaches. What Precautions Shall I Take?
My son was diagnosed with an arachnoid cyst a few months ago after having seizures/persistent headaches . Neurologist does not seem very concerned about it, just monitoring, will do MRI Q 6 months. Every year, we go to six flags and this year I am concerned about the effect it might have on this cyst. His neurologist says its okay to do the same things he has done prior to knowledge of the cyst. Just wondering if there were any special precautions recommended? And if it is not recommended for rides/roller coasters? He is 9
Thu, 18 Oct 2012
Hi,
Thank you for posting your query.
Arachnoid cyst in the brain can be present since birth in most cases, but it comes to light only when MRI or CT of the brain is done.
Arachnoid cyst contains fluid (cerebrospinal fluid) and it is not a tumor.
Arachnoid cyst most commonly causes headache or fits. For fits, anti-epileptic medications are required.
In most cases, surgery is not required. Surgery is only required if the arachnoid cyst starts pressing on the normal brain tissues.
So, I agree with your doctor's approach. Repeat MRI would show whether the cyst in enlarging or whether it is pressing on the adjacent brain tissue.
So, at present no need to worry and child need not restrict any activity.
I hope it helps.
Best wishes,
Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (Neurology)
Senior consultant Neurologist
Thank you for posting your query.
Arachnoid cyst in the brain can be present since birth in most cases, but it comes to light only when MRI or CT of the brain is done.
Arachnoid cyst contains fluid (cerebrospinal fluid) and it is not a tumor.
Arachnoid cyst most commonly causes headache or fits. For fits, anti-epileptic medications are required.
In most cases, surgery is not required. Surgery is only required if the arachnoid cyst starts pressing on the normal brain tissues.
So, I agree with your doctor's approach. Repeat MRI would show whether the cyst in enlarging or whether it is pressing on the adjacent brain tissue.
So, at present no need to worry and child need not restrict any activity.
I hope it helps.
Best wishes,
Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (Neurology)
Senior consultant Neurologist
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Magnetic resonance imaging
Loading Online Doctors....