Posterior fossa arachnoid cyst causing torticollis and gastro-oesophageal reflux in an infant

Childs Nerv Syst. 2018 Dec;34(12):2519-2523. doi: 10.1007/s00381-018-3917-4. Epub 2018 Jul 30.

Abstract

Introduction: Arachnoid cysts (ACs) account for a small proportion of all intracranial lesions. They are often incidental but can become symptomatic and even cause a threat to life. Symptoms are usually due to direct compression of neural elements and/or raised intracranial pressure.

Case report: We report the case of an infant with an enlarging posterior fossa arachnoid cyst (PFAC) causing torticollis and gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR), the combination of which had been previously unreported in this context. Endoscopic fenestration and cyst decompression were followed by complete resolution of the symptoms. We discuss the possible mechanisms of torticollis and GOR in this context.

Keywords: Arachnoid cyst; Endoscopy; GOR; Hydrocephalus; Posterior fossa; Torticollis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Arachnoid Cysts / complications*
  • Arachnoid Cysts / surgery
  • Cranial Fossa, Posterior / pathology
  • Decompression, Surgical
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Hydrocephalus / etiology
  • Infant
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology
  • Torticollis / etiology*