Intramedullary arachnoid cyst of the dorsal spine: Report of a rare spinal cord condition

Arachnoid cysts are rare subtypes of spinal cord tumors, usually found in extradural or intradural extramedullary locations. Intramedullary arachnoid cysts are exceedingly rare, with only a few cases reported in the literature. Although these cysts are histologically benign, they can cause significant functional impairment and lead to severe neurological deficits if left untreated. Their rarity presents challenges in diagnosis and management, highlighting the need for awareness and early intervention. We present a new case of a thoracic spinal cord intramedullary arachnoid cyst in a patient who displayed progressive neurological symptoms. Diagnosis was facilitated by detailed clinical evaluation and advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI. The patient underwent surgical intervention, resulting in marked postoperative improvement. This case is discussed in relation to the existing literature, offering a comprehensive review of the etiopathogenesis, clinical presentation, radiological characteristics, and therapeutic strategies for intramedullary arachnoid cysts. We emphasize the need for a tailored surgical approach to effectively decompress the spinal cord, alleviate symptoms, and minimize the risk of recurrence.