Spinal Fluid?

[babyshakes]

My Boyfriend told me he has a brain tumor.  He said that the DR.'s found it a couple of years ago because of a snowboarding accident, he hit his head and so they ran a CAT scan.  They said he has most likely had it his whole life.  They told him it was just spinal fluid and that he should have it checked every 6 months.  I am concerned because he hasn't been in for a check up in a while and so I have decided to do some research on his diagnosis, however, I have been having a difficult time finding information specific to the tumor just being spinal fluid.  We were not a couple when he was diagnosed so I am going off of what he is telling me.  Is it possible that he mis-understood the Dr.'s?  Please explain to me, if he has a tumor that is not cancerous or that needs to be removed, what could it be?  What precautions should he take other than getting it checked?

[Godofredo MD]

Hi.

One condition that could present as a tumor that contains spinal fluid is an arachnoid cyst.

Arachnoid cysts are basically sacs filled with cerebrospinal fluid that are located between the brain and the arachnoid membrane. These are not malignant (cancerous). If the cyst was present since birth, it is known as a primary arachnoid cyst.

An arachnoid cyst only needs to be treated if it is causing moderate to severe symptoms. Symptoms would depend on the location and size of the arachnoid cyst.

Aside from having it checked every 6 months, you should observe for any symptoms that might indicate that the cyst is putting pressure on significant brain structures. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, vomiting, vertigo, seizures, hearing disorders, visual disturbances, balance disorders, and difficulty walking. If these symptoms appear, you should bring your boyfriend to his neurologist for further evaluation.

Hope this helps.