What is a tarlov cysts on spine?

Question

I have a spinal tarlov cyst..

Answer 1

They are a bulge in the covering of the spinal cord (in simple terms!!!). The technical description is below.


"Perineurial (Tarlov) cysts are meningeal dilations of the posterior spinal nerve root sheath that most often affect sacral roots"

Answer 2

Tarlov cysts are spinal nerve root lesions filled with spinal fluid, found most often at the sacral level of the spine. Tarlov cysts can be asymptomatic or cause a serious neurological disorder called Tarlov disease. The scope of the Tarlov Cyst Association includes related spinal cysts.

A propensity for developing Tarlov cysts may be passed through the mother or father. A cyst may remain asymptomatic until the onset of the disease stage is initiated by an event such as an auto accident, heavy lifting, fall, or another disease such as one of the many forms of Herpes.

The onset of symptoms may be gradual or sudden, mild or severe. The progression and severity of symptoms differs widely. Tarlov cysts in the disease stage usually cause symptoms in the distribution of the affected nerve root, initially pain, and, later, dysfunction. Without successful treatment, Tarlov disease often requires major lifestyle changes including partial or complete occupational disability.

Tarlov cysts differ in structure. A cyst might incorporate nerve elements or be free of them. A cyst can be valved or non-valved. A valved cyst has a structure in its neck that makes it easier for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to enter the cyst than to leave it. In a non-valved cyst, CSF flows freely between the cyst and the dural tube.

I included a FAQ link. Good luck to you!