Differentiation

* What is the difference between hydrocephalus and arachnoid cyst?

* What is a cause of arachnoid cyst?

[Christopher R Newey, DO]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with a doctor.

Without the ability to examine and obtain a history, I can not tell you what the exact cause of the symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information.

Arachnoid cysts are sacs filled with cerebropsinal fluid (CSF) which is the fluid that normally bathes the brain and spine. This fluid is normally located in the part of the brain called the subarachnoid space.

The exact cause of arachnoid cysts is unclear, but the majority of cysts are thought to be developmental: occur as a human develops, present since birth. Secondary arachnoid cysts, cysts occurring from a particular reason, are much less common. They can occur after epidural anesthesia, overdrainage of CSF due to specific draining systems placed for various reasons, or spinal injury or surgery.

Hydrocephalus is the enlargement of the ventricular system of the brain. It can be the result of obstruction of outflow or overproduction or enlargement secondary to the decrease in another component of the brain such as the parenchyma. Additionally, it can be congenitally enlarged.

Thank you for this opportunity to answer your questions, I hope you find the information I have provided useful, good luck.