An arachnoid cyst in the brain is a fluid-filled sac located within the arachnoid membrane, one of the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord. These cysts are typically congenital, meaning they develop before birth.

The brain’s most common sites for arachnoid cysts include: Middle cranial fossa, cerebellopontine angle, suprasellar region, parietal or frontal lobes.

The management of an arachnoid cyst depends on factors like size, location, and whether or not it is causing symptoms. Options include:

• Observation: If the cyst is small and asymptomatic, regular monitoring with periodic imaging may be sufficient.
• Surgical Intervention: If symptoms are present, surgery may be recommended. Procedures include:
• Cyst fenestration: Creating an opening in the cyst to allow the fluid to drain into the brain’s natural fluid spaces.
• Shunting: Inserting a shunt to drain fluid from the cyst into another part of the body, such as the abdomen.
• Endoscopic procedures: Minimally invasive techniques to drain the cyst.

Each case is individualized, and treatment decisions are made based on symptom severity, cyst location, and overall patient health.