Intracranial arachnoid cysts: Pediatric neurosurgery update

Abstract

Background: With the greater worldwide availability of neuroimaging, more intracranial arachnoid cysts (IACs) are being found in all age groups. A subset of these lesions become symptomatic and requires neurosurgical management. The clinical presentations of IACs vary from asymptomatic to extremely symptomatic. Here, we reviewed the clinical presentation and treatment considerations for pediatric IACs. Case Description: Here, we presented three cases of IAC, focusing on different clinical and treatment considerations. Conclusion: IACs can be challenging to manage. There is no Class I Evidence to guide how these should be treated. We suggest clinical decision-making framework as to how to treat IACs based on our understanding of the natural history, risks/benefits of treatments, and outcomes in the future, require better patient selection for the surgical management of IACs will be warranted.