Thoracolumbar extradural arachnoid cysts: a study of 14 consecutive cases

摘要

Background To investigate characteristic clinical and radiological features of extradural arachnoid cysts (EDACs) in the thoracolumbar region, a retrospective review of medical records and imaging studies was performed. EDACs are well known but relatively rare lesions in the thoracolumbar spinal canal. The most common site is the lower thoracic spine, and it may cause neurological symptoms by compressing the spinal cord or nerve root. In this study, the pathogenesis, symptomatology, diagnostic approach, and surgical management of EDACs will be discussed.