Journal of Clinical Case Reports

Dysmenorrhoea and Adnexal Cysts - A Rare Presentation of Tarlov Cysts in the Pelvis

Abstract

Eric Tat Choi Lee

Tarlov cysts are meningeal dilations of the posterior spinal nerve root. The cysts can grow as a result of an increased inflow of cerebrospinal fluid giving rise to symptoms due to compression or stretching of the adjacent nerve roots. They are usually multiple and asymptomatic, but Tarlov cysts in the sacral neural canal and foramina can be associated with symptoms like radicular pain, low back pain, paresthesia, and urinary or bowel dysfunction. To the best of our knowledge, Tarlov cysts presented with dysmenorrhea has not been reported in the literature. This association, though rare, should not be overlooked, especially when there is enough clinical suspicion while investigating an atypically looking adnexal cyst while managing in the context of dysmenorrhea or pelvic pain. MRI is recommended when the exact diagnosis is in doubt. Laparoscopic excision of the cyst is feasible and in our case it has been shown to be effective and safe.