Arachnoiditis
Fact Sheet #15
Arkansas Spinal Cord Commission
1501 North University, Suite 470
Little Rock, AR 72202
501-296-1788
This material published in cooperation with the Paralyzed Veterans of America,
Spinal Cord Injury Education and Training Foundation.
Description:
Arachnoiditis is a progressive inflammatory disorder affecting the middle membrane (Arachnoid) surrounding the spinal cord and brain. Either the spinal cord or the brain may be involved and in some cases both are affected. Arachnoiditis is a rare disorder affecting males and females in equal numbers. Individuals who have had spinal surgery, injection of foreign fluids into the spinal area such as dye or anesthesia, or injuries to the spine or head may be at greater risk to develop this disorder.
Causes:
This disorder can be a complication of meningitis (an inflammation of the three membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord: the dura mater, pia mater and arachnoid). The condition may also be caused by injected solutions, such as anesthesia or testing dyes, reaching the membranes and resulting in inflammation. An immune deficiency in the blood may also contribute to development of this disorder. In very rare cases, Arachnoiditis is caused by an infection from a parasite (e.g., flea, leech, tick, etc.).
Symptoms:
When the brain is involved, symptoms of Arachnoid- itis include severe headaches, vision disturbances, dizziness, nausea and/or vomiting. When the spine is affected, pain, unusual sensations, weakness and paralysis can develop. The disorder usually begins unexpectedly with gradual loss of sensations and movement of the lower back and legs. Inflammation, muscle atrophy (progressive wasting away), weakness and involuntary twitching of muscles often occur. In the most severe cases, loss of vision and/or paralysis may develop.
Treatment:
Treatment of Arachnoiditis consists of a combination of surgery and drug therapy. Surgical removal of the accumulation of foreign fluids from the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord may be helpful in some cases, especially if pressure develops. Anti- inflammatory and other drug therapy may improve muscle spasms, headaches, vision loss and other symptoms of the disease.
For more information contact:
Arachnoiditis Information & Support Network
P.O. Box 1166, Ballwin, MO 63022
(314) 394-5741
References:
No specific references available. The content of this fact sheet is based on Dr. McCluer's experience. You should discuss the problem with your Doctor before making any major changes.
Developed by: Shirley McCluer, MD, Medical Director, Arkansas State Spinal Cord Commission.
Date: December, 1990.
Published by The Arkansas Spinal Cord Commission,
1501 North University, Suite 470, Little Rock, AR 72207.
Phone: 1-(501)-324-9624.
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