Neuroenteric cyst simulating an arachnoid cyst: A case report.

BACKGROUND

Neuroenteric cysts (NC) are caused by an error in embryonic development, in which there is a failure in the separation between the notochord and the anterior intestine, leading to the formation of cysts, usually located in the cervicothoracic spine region.

CASE DESCRIPTION: A 10-year-old male patient reported 20 days of neck pain. In the magnetic resonance imaging study, the lesion C2-C3 was homogeneously hyperintense on T1- and T2-weighted images. There was no restriction on diffusion-weighted imaging, with severe spinal cord compression. Surgery was suggested to remove the cyst to avoid potential neurological complications. C1-C2-C3 laminotomy and microsurgical excision of the lesion were the chosen paths. The cyst was dissected and revealed a light gray appearance and a content of clear hyaline fluid, suggestive of an arachnoid cyst. A histopathological examination of the cyst wall identified images suggestive of NC.

CONCLUSION

The definitive diagnosis depends on the association between clinical findings, radiological study, and anatomopathological confirmation, which is an indispensable step in differentiating NC from other congenital or acquired conditions of the spinal canal.