Perineural cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop around spinal nerves. The spelling of perineural is pronounced /ˌperəˈnjʊərəl/, with stress on the second syllable. The prefix peri- means ‘around’, and neural refers to the nerves. Cysts are sacs or cavities lined with tissue enclosing fluid. Within the medical field, correct spelling is important to ensure clear communication between healthcare professionals. Knowing the correct pronunciation of terms can also help patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options.
Perineural cysts, also known as Tarlov cysts, are benign fluid-filled sacs that develop on the nerve roots at the spinal cord's base. These cysts are typically found in the sacral region, near the tailbone, but can also occur in other regions of the spine. They form when the protective layer known as the perineurium undergoes a weakness or defect, leading to the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid.
Perineural cysts are usually asymptomatic and are often discovered incidentally during imaging tests for unrelated conditions. However, in some cases, these cysts can cause symptoms such as localized pain, numbness, tingling sensations, or muscle weakness. The severity and location of symptoms vary greatly among individuals.
The exact cause of perineural cysts is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to congenital abnormalities or trauma to the spinal region. These cysts are generally considered rare, affecting a small percentage of the population.
Treatment for perineural cysts focuses on managing symptoms rather than removing the cysts themselves. Conservative approaches may include pain medications, physical therapy, or nerve blocks. In severe cases where symptoms are debilitating or progressive, surgical intervention may be considered.
It is important to distinguish perineural cysts from other spinal conditions, as the treatment approaches may differ. Proper diagnosis and evaluation by a spine specialist or neurologist are essential for appropriate management.
The word "perineural" is derived from two components: "peri-" and "neural". "Peri-" is a prefix of Greek origin, meaning "around" or "surrounding". "Neural" is an adjective form of the noun "neuron", which refers to a specialized cell transmitting nerve impulses.
On the other hand, the term "cysts" is derived from the Greek word "kustis", meaning "a sac filled with fluid". It is used in medical terminology to refer to abnormal sac-like structures that contain fluid or semisolid material.
When combined, "perineural cysts" refers to cystic structures that form around or alongside nerves. These cysts can occur anywhere in the body but are commonly found along spinal nerve roots and are associated with the sheaths of nerves.