Intracranial arachnoid cyst in pregnancy: case report, literature review and evaluation of neuraxial anaesthesia risk

Abstract

Choosing the type of intrapartum anaesthesia for pregnant women with intracranial arachnoid cysts can be challenging due to a lack of research. We report the intrapartum anaesthetic management of a 25-year-old woman with a known 10 cm arachnoid cyst. By means of a literature review and discussion of safety surrounding neuraxial techniques, this report will help to inform obstetric anaesthesia practice. Overall, in the absence of raised intracranial pressure, neuraxial analgesia and anaesthesia during the intrapartum period appears to be a safe option.