I have severe pain around my shunt site for an aracnoid cyst

[tara_sarvas]

I've had two shunts all of my life and experience debillitating pain since I was a child. I have one on my brain stem from an arachnoid cyst and one in my ventricles to relieve Hydrocephalus symptoms. Are there any medical techniques to relieve my pain. I've been to multiple pain clinics, but I haven't had any luck with relief. Can ANYONE help me??


This discussion is related to arachnoid cysts and shunts.

[Shuntgirl23]

I dont have any advice as i am in the same situation as you. I have a shunt for a huge arachnoid cyst and experience terrible pain constantly as well. Now the shunt is malfunction and im probably having it replaced or a 2nd one inserted. Just wanted to let you know u are not alone.

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Thank you for your question. Although without being able to examine you I can not offer you the specific advice on diagnosis and treatment that you need, but I would try to provide you some relevant information about your health concern.

Arachnoid cyst is a brain cyst that may remain asymptomatic for long years. But if it is large it can cause headache, paralysis, seizures and gait disorders. Therefore, surgical intervention is essential to remove the large cyst and if permanent damage needs to be avoided.  Craniotomy, needle aspiration and cerebral shunts are common surgical treatment that may help.  Please consult a neurologist right away in this regard. Hope this helps.

[Christina1966]

My daughter (now 12 yrs) was shunted at 2 months old for an arachnoid cyst at her brain stem.  She has had 15 revisions already.  She has chronic headaches as well.  We tried migrane medications but they haven't given her much relief.  We think she is currently having a shunt malfunction because the headaches have gotten worse with nausea and the inability to look up.  Unfortunately, this mean she might have to have yet another shunt revision which may lead to even more headaches.  Have you found any relief?

worried mom

[rm2grwplants]

I was wondering how the people on this thread are coming along? My son ,13 today, is having the same issues. He was Shunted at 1 and did fairley well until 3 years ago and since then it has been one thing after another and 17 procedures in 17 months. Wondering if it is the age and growth with body changes?

- Ben's Mom!! <3