Tarlov Cyst

Tarlov cysts are also known as sacral nerve root cysts.  They are abnormal sacs filled with cerebrospinal fluid that are very painful.  MRI is the best diagnostic tool to visualize these types of cysts.  Symptoms of Tarlov cysts are pain and/or weakness in the lower back, legs, and feet, abnormal sensations in legs and feet, pain when sitting or standing, and pain when coughing or sneezing.  There can also be bowel and bladder changes, swelling in the lower back area, and a burning sensation in or around the sacral area.  Once diagnosed, the patients are sent to a pain management physician and in some case a urologist if the bladder is involved. 

image found at http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tarlov_cyst_004.jpg

Daisy

information found at http://www.tarlovcystfoundation.org/TarlovCystInformation.asp

Herniated Thoracic Disk

A herniated disc occurs when the outer fibers of the disk are damaged and the soft inner material of the nucleus pulposus bursts out of where it anatomically belongs. If the fibers tear near the spinal canal, the nucleus pulposus material can push into the spinal canal. Because the thoracic area is clearly not capable of this a thoracic herniation can be very serious.  There is very little room for the herniation to go so therefore it can push or damage the spinal canal or cord.  The most common test used today to diagnose a herniated disc is for the person suffering to have an MRI.  Pain medicine can be prescribed, however surgery is sometimes the only option. 


Daisy

Information found at http://www.umm.edu/spinecenter/education/herniated_thoracic_disk_htm