Ask a doctor on the topic of Neurology

MRI findings Arachnoid cyst

October 15, 2019 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Good evening,
my name is Tim, I am writing regarding my fiancée Ayessa (25 years old).

She has an MRI report (4 months old, unfortunately only received today) with the assessment: Right temporo-basal 3.7 x 2.1 x 1.7 cm measuring, most likely an arachnoid cyst-like formation at a rather atypical location.

Furthermore, the report states a 3.7x2.1x1.7 cm measuring circumscribed liquor-intense formation at the level of the mesencephalon at the transition to the pons without signs of compression.

The MRI was done due to headaches and nausea. She has been suffering from these since childhood. Migraine has always been suspected before.

Since both of us are mentally shaken and apart from normal internet research cannot find much, we are reaching out to you. We are extremely afraid that it might be something very serious/deadly.
Additionally, the report only states "most likely a cyst-like form", so we don't even know if it is a cyst or something else critical. The rest of the MRI was mostly inconspicuous according to the report.

It would be great if you could comment on the quoted sentences. Also, what would be a sensible approach. Waiting two months for an MRI result would be very nerve-wracking for us. Isn't there a faster way to check this?

We would be infinitely grateful for your help. Unfortunately, we cannot afford to pay too much, as we are students.

Best regards

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Good morning,

Arachnoid cysts are always harmless and never become malignant. Most affected individuals never even realize they have one, as they are usually found incidentally on an MRI. They are also not the cause of your friend's symptoms.

A follow-up after 6 months is only to see if the size remains the same, which it usually does. This timeframe is sensible, as a shorter period does not provide enough information.

The reason it says "most likely" is because a confirmed diagnosis can only be made by taking a tissue sample. Therefore, radiologists can only describe. However, it is clear that it is a cyst, as the abnormality is filled with fluid. Your friend likely had it from birth.

So, no reason to worry!

Warm regards, Dr. Gehring