Tarlov Cysts
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What are Tarlov Cysts?Is there any treatment?What is the prognosis?What research is being done?What are Tarlov Cysts?
Tarlov cysts are fluid-filled sacs that most often affect nerve roots in the sacrum, the group of bones at the base of the
spine. These cysts can compress nerve roots, causing lower back pain, sciatica (shock-like or burning pain in the lower back,
buttocks, and down one leg to below the knee), urinary incontinence, sexual dysfunction, and some loss of feeling or control
of movement in the leg and/or foot. Pressure on the nerves next to the cysts can also cause pain. Tarlov cysts may become
symptomatic following shock, trauma, or exertion that causes the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid. Women are at much higher
risk of developing these cysts than are men.
Is there any treatment?
Tarlov cysts may be drained to relieve pressure and pain, but relief is often only temporary and fluid build-up in the cysts
will recur. Corticosteroid injections may also temporarily relieve pain. Other drugs may be prescribed to treat chronic pain
and depression. Filling the cysts with fat has not been shown to work. Injecting the cysts with fibrin glue (a combination
of naturally occurring substances based on the clotting factor in blood) may provide temporary relief of pain. Some scientists
believe the herpes simplex virus, which thrives in an alkaline environment, can cause Tarlov cysts to become symptomatic;
making the body less alkaline, through diet or supplements, may lesson symptoms. Surgical resection may be needed when the
cysts cause continued pain or progressive neurological damage.
What is the prognosis?
Most Tarlov cysts do not cause pain, weakness, or nerve root compression. The cysts do not appear to recur following complete
resection by an experienced neurosurgeon. Acute and chronic pain may require changes in lifestyle. If left untreated, nerve
root compression can cause permanent neurological damage.
What research is being done?
The NINDS, a component of the National Institutes of Health within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, vigorously
pursues a research program seeking new treatments to reduce and prevent pain and nerve damage.
Select this link
to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
Prepared by:
Office of Communications and Public Liaison
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by
or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice
on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined
that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.
All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.
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Last updated February 14, 2007
