Treatment of Tarlov Cyst

Tarlov cysts (TC; perineural cyst, sacral perineural cyst, sacral meningeal cyst) are characterized as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-filled sacs that typically occur between the perineurium (the protective sheath that surrounds a bundle of nerve fibers) and endoneurium (a layer of connective tissue around the myelin sheath of a peripheral nerve), arising near the dorsal root ganglion but can be located anywhere along the spine and affect the nerve roots. TC are often asymptomatic; however, these cysts can present as chronic back pain in the sacral or coccyx area and individuals may have radiculopathy, leg weakness, bowel or bladder dysfunction, and/or sexual dysfunction. There is no specific, accepted therapy for individuals with symptomatic TC. Treatment is directed toward the specific symptoms and may include medication, surgery, or other techniques.