Characteristics and management of neurenteric cysts in the pediatric population: patient series.

BACKGROUND

Neurenteric cysts (NECs) can form anywhere along the neuroaxis.

OBSERVATIONS

Thirteen patients with NECs were treated at a single institution: 7 with intraspinal lesions and 6 with cranial lesions. Spinal cysts presented with pain (28.6%), scoliosis (42.9%), gait changes (28.6%), and progressive weakness (14.3%). Infratentorial cysts (n = 4) presented with headache and neck pain; the CN III cyst (n = 1) presented with CN III palsy, headaches, and facial pain; and the convexity NEC (n = 1) presented with seizures. Complete resection was achieved without recurrence for all spinal and infratentorial NECs. Both supratentorial NECs had radiographic recurrence within 1 year of surgery, one of which recurred after gross-total resection. The CN III NEC did not require reintervention with durable improvement in pain, headaches, and CN III function postoperatively. Convexity recurrence was associated with recurrent seizures; complete re-resection was achieved with durable improvement in seizures. No perioperative complications were associated with supratentorial, infratentorial, or sacral NECs. All complications were associated with ventral thoracic NECs and included a CSF leak (n = 1), neurological worsening (n = 1), and symptomatic delayed tethering (n = 2).

LESSONS

NECs can occur anywhere within the neuroaxis. Symptomatic cysts require treatment. The cyst location impacts the surgical approach and can inform discussions regarding the operative risk and anticipated outcomes for patients and their families. https://thejns.org/doi/10.3171/CASE25165.