Tarlov Cysts are sacs filled with cerebrospinal fluid that develop on the spinal nerve roots at the base of the spine. The correct spelling of this medical condition is pronounced /taɹlʌv sɪsts/. The first word, Tarlov, is pronounced with stress on the first syllable, with the "a" sounding like "ah." The second word, cysts, is pronounced with stress on the first syllable, with a short "i" sound for the "y" and a soft "s" sound. Tarlov Cysts can cause chronic pain and other neurological symptoms and may require treatment.
Tarlov cysts, also known as perineural cysts, are fluid-filled sacs that form on the nerve roots of the spine, near the base of the spine, or within the sacrum. These cysts are named after Isadore M. Tarlov, the neurologist who first described them in the early 20th century.
Tarlov cysts are typically small and benign, ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in size. They develop when cerebrospinal fluid accumulates within the protective covering of the spinal nerve roots, causing the sac to expand and form a cyst. The exact cause of Tarlov cysts is not fully understood, but theories suggest that they may be congenital (present at birth) or result from trauma, inflammation, or changes in cerebrospinal fluid dynamics.
While many individuals with Tarlov cysts may remain asymptomatic and unaware of their presence, others may experience a range of symptoms depending on the location and size of the cysts. Common symptoms include chronic pain in the lower back, pelvis, or legs, bowel and bladder dysfunction, weakness, numbness, tingling, and sexual dysfunction. In some cases, Tarlov cysts can lead to nerve compression or irritation, causing radiculopathy or other neurological complications.
The diagnosis of Tarlov cysts usually involves imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized tomography (CT) scans. Treatment options for Tarlov cysts focus on managing the associated symptoms rather than removing the cysts themselves. Non-surgical approaches may include pain management, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and corticosteroid injections. In rare cases where symptoms are severe and do not respond to conservative measures, surgery to drain or remove the cysts
The term "Tarlov cysts" is named after Isadore M. Tarlov, an American neurosurgeon who first described the condition in 1938. The cysts, also known as perineural cysts or sacral nerve root cysts, develop at the nerve root in the sacrum region of the spine. Isadore M. Tarlov extensively studied and published research on these cysts, leading to their eponymous recognition. Hence, the etymology of the term "Tarlov cysts" is derived from Dr. Isadore M. Tarlov's name.