High prevalence of cervical perineural cysts on cervical spine MRI-Case series

The Cervical perineural (Tarlov) cysts have been reported to be a rare occurance. The frequency, distribution and possible clinical relevance of such perineural cyst in the cervical spine were studied. In a retrospective review of 41 patients undergoing cervical spine MRI 6 patients showed perineural cysts (14%). Size ranged from 4 to 12 mm and the lower cervical was predominantly affected. The reported clinical symptoms could not be correlated to the found perineural cysts. Cervical perineural cysts seem to be a common asymtomatic incidental finding. The rare diagnosis of a symptomatic perineural cyst should be made with caution and is a diagnosis of exclusion.