Abstract
Discal (intraspinal extradural) cysts which communicate with intervertebral disk are
uncommon cause of lumbar radiculopathy, especially in pediatric patients. Only three
pediatric cases have been reported in the literature. A 15-year-old boy presented
with acute onset left-sided S1 radiculopathy. Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar
spine revealed a well-defined round extradural mass seated in the left ventrolateral
epidural space of the spinal canal behind the S1 vertebral body. He did not respond
to the conservative therapies. Because of persistent left S1 radiculopathy, left laminotomy
was performed at L5–S1 level with coagulation of the posterior longitudinal ligament
surrounding the anular tear; however, discectomy was not done. The symptoms resolved
and no recurrence was found at 7-year follow-up. The clinical manifestations, imaging
findings, possible pathogeneses, and treatment options of these lesions are discussed
and the relevant literature is reviewed.
Keywords
discal cyst - pediatric - lumbar radiculopathy - intervertebral disk
