The ISPN Guide to Pediatric Neurosurgery

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Management of Arachnoid Cysts of the Head and Spine in Children

Initial Management at Presentation

  • Assess: Evaluation for and management of elevated ICP is required.
  • Scan: MRI scans should be obtained to evaluate cysts and rule out other entities.
  • Treat: Surgery is indicated for growing or symptomatic cysts.

Adjunctive Therapies

  • None

Follow-up

  • Visits as indicated: The patient should be followed for ICP issues when indicated.
  • New baseline image set: A follow-up scan should be obtained to establish a new baseline in 3–6 months. Subsequent imaging is based on recurrent symptoms.