Strategic Management of Cerebral Arachnoid Cysts in Children in the Era of Globalisation

Arachnoid cysts in children are incidental or symptomatic findings which can have associated neurological pathologies in children. Epileptic seizures and headache are by far the most common symptoms associated to arachnoid cysts but they can also associate cerebral palsy or facial dwarfism. Objectives: In the era of globalisation we want to highlight the importance of modern diagnostic procedures and long term strategic management of children with arachnoid cysts in order to rise their social competence and have a better quality of life. Material and methods: We searched the most important theories in the literature and the new methods in the management of the arachnoid cysts. Results: Even if surgical is necessary just in few cases, medication is needed for epileptic seizures. Many children receive neuroprotective agents while other receive antiepileptic drugs for the concomitant or associated epilepsy. For speech difficulties and movement disorders speech therapy, physical therapy and other further support is needed. Discussions and conclusions: The EEG patterns are not mandatory identic to the site of the cyst. Facial dwarfism and other genetic hallmarks need to be further investigated for rare syndromes associated to cerebral arachnoid cysts. The arachnoid cyst could be a hallmark that children brain can be more sensitive to seizures.