Tarlov cyst

Perineural cysts or Tarlov cysts (TCs) are nerve root dilations resulting from pathologically increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure.

Signs and symptoms
Tarlov cyst often cause widespread pain, and patients often report fatigue. Some patients with Tarlov cysts may have no symptoms.

Treatment
Treatment is usually only provided if patients are symptomatic, and can involve either surgical or non-surgical approaches.

ME/CFS
A study of 197 ME/CFS and Fibromyalgia patients found that the prevalence of Tarlov cysts was three times higher in ME/CFS patients than the general population, at 39%.

The study's authors conclude:"This observation supports the hypothesis that STCs, FM, and CFS may share the same pathophysiological mechanism, i.e., moderately increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure, causing irritation of neurons and axons in dorsal root ganglia"

Notable articles

 * 2020, High Prevalence of Perineural Cysts in Patients with Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Full text)

Learn more

 * Tarlov cysts - American Association of Neurological Surgeons
 * Tarlov cysts - National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)