Neglected Tarlov cysts: a case of a Tarlov cyst with spermatorrhea

Abstract

Background Tarlov cysts are a commonly misdiagnosed condition, which can present with many rare symptoms. We report a case of a Tarlov cyst with spermatorrhea and review the pertinent literature. Case presentation A 42-year-old male patient had a history of spermatorrhea for > 10 years, but was incorrectly diagnosed as the patient and the doctors consistently mistook the symptoms for a genitourinary disease. Magnetic resonance imaging showed that two cysts in the sacral canal. The diagnosis was Tarlov cyst. We performed surgery to remove the cyst and the symptoms of spermatorrhea disappeared after the operation. Conclusions This case demonstrates that orthopedics and urologists should improve their understanding of Tarlov cysts to avoid misdiagnosis and mistreatment.

Clinical findings of Tarlov cyst according to its location and level in lumbosacral spine on magnetic resonance imaging

“…While our research corroborates several aspects of the existing literature, it also sheds light on the lesserdiscussed clinical presentations, such as pinpoint locations of clinical manifestation due to aberrant cyst placement and mass effect (24,25). These nuanced findings are imperative for clinical practice, as they suggest that even small cysts in critical locations may have significant clinical repercussions (26). The interplay between our findings and established data leads to a more comprehensive understanding of Tarlov cysts (27).…”

Tarlov Cysts and Premature Ejaculation

“…In sexual health surveys, PE is reported as the most common issues in men. PE is ejaculation occurring within less than one minute of vaginal penetration (Chung et al, 2015 ; Salonia et al, 2021 ; Sun et al, 2021 ). The prevalence of PE accounts for 20–30% of sexual dysfunction (Raveendran et al, 2021 ).…”

“…Additionally, neurological diseases, including lumbar disk herniation and spinal stenosis, have been proposed as causes of PE (Jin, 2015 ; Yazici et al, 2013 ). Lumbar disk herniation, spinal stenosis, and Tavlov cysts rarely show positive results in X-ray reports but can be demonstrated by the information of lesion information in MRI (Hornung et al, 2023 ; Sun et al, 2021 ).…”

Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Sacral Cysts

“…Tumors within the sacral canal usually result in more severe symptoms of nerve compression and show up as substantial masses on imaging. Sun P et al [10] reported a 42year-old male patient with a history of spermatorrhea for >10 years that was misdiagnosed as a genitourinary disorder. MRI showed two cysts in the sacral canal.…”