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
When Is Surgery Required For Tarlov Cysts?
Many years ago I was d iagnosed with Tarlov cysts, which are thought to be congenital .M ine are VERY large and may be symptoms of lower back pains.... or not. There is erosion if L3 (1/4 of L3) ,with about 1/3 of my sacrum. Some nerve fibers go through the cysts. I have U. Colitis in remission, and I have been hospitalized many times for rest ^& blood transfusions. The steroids have caused cataracts, glaucoma & severe osteoporosis. When is surgery necessary? ?
Thu, 18 Jun 2015
Hello!
Thank you for your question on HCM! I understand your concern.
Your clinical situation is very complicated, because colitis can cause irradiating back pain.
Tarlov cysts usually are asymptomatic and do not need treatment. But in a case like yours, if the erosion of L3 is near the cyst and not because of osteoporosis, I would recommend to consult with a neurosurgeon for the possibility or treatment.
A careful physical examination for the neurological signs would be very helpful to determine if there is any radicular pain related to the cyst. In this case surgery would be needed.
Hope to have been helpful!
Best Wishes! Dr. Abaz Quka
Thank you for your question on HCM! I understand your concern.
Your clinical situation is very complicated, because colitis can cause irradiating back pain.
Tarlov cysts usually are asymptomatic and do not need treatment. But in a case like yours, if the erosion of L3 is near the cyst and not because of osteoporosis, I would recommend to consult with a neurosurgeon for the possibility or treatment.
A careful physical examination for the neurological signs would be very helpful to determine if there is any radicular pain related to the cyst. In this case surgery would be needed.
Hope to have been helpful!
Best Wishes! Dr. Abaz Quka
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 Severe osteoporosis
Loading Online Doctors....