Effects of having prefrontal cyst removed

Hi!

This boy just found out he has a huge arachnoid cyst in his right prefrontal cortex, and is now scheduled to have it removed. He is 28 years old, and most likely born with it, although it probably started getting big during his late teens.

After he's had it removed, what personality changes is he likely to experience? If I understand correctly, the right prefrontal cortex is vital to the human essence, so is he likely to become "more human", i.e. better to communicate, more emphatic, more daring and so forth? Skills which he claims he once had, but that started to diminish during his late teens. Will his brain "pop back out" or "grow back in", so that he'll become who he was meant to be?

Thank you!

John

[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.

Most commonly, these are primary arachnoid cysts, cysts that are present from birth and result from a minor developmental problem that occurred while the brain was developing. Secondary arachnoid cysts are those that develop secondary to trauma, infection, or after brain sugery. It is not always possible to tell if the cyst you have is primary or secondary. If an arachnoid cyst is deemed to be causing symptoms or is pressing on surrounding structures (which would most often be evident on your MRI), surgical opening (fenestration) of the cyst and other surgical interventions could be done to correct it, but this is rarely necessary because the vast majority of arachnoid cysts are benign, do not grow, and do not cause symptoms. Sometimes, re-imaging to take another look at it after a few months or years may be indicated.

What are your symptoms prompting to have surgery? How big is the arachnoid cyst? It is difficult to answer the changes you will expect postoperatively without further information. You may notice subtle changes, but typically, headaches and seizures are the most likely noticeable differences (if these apply to you).

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