Malignant irreversible global cerebral edema as a complication of fourth ventricular arachnoid cyst

Abstract

Arachnoid cysts are benign congenital lesions of the central nervous system accounting for 1% of all intracranial masses. Intraventricular location of arachnoid cyst especially in the fourth ventricle is rare. Fenestration or marsupialization of these “innocent-looking” benign cysts can lead to dreadful life-threatening complications. We report a rare case of development of malignant irreversible global cerebral edema in a 21-year-old lady following surgical decompression of fourth ventricular arachnoid cyst.

Keywords::

• arachnoid cyst
• cerebral edema
• cerebrospinal fluid pressure
• fourth ventricle

Declaration of interest: The authors report no declarations of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.