Spontaneous chronic subdural hematoma associated with arachnoid cyst in a child: A case report and critical review of the literature

BACKGROUND: Arachnoid cysts (ACs) are benign, congenital, fluid-filled collection between two layers of the arachnoid membrane accounting for about 1% of all the intracranial space occupying lesions. These lesions are usually asymptomatic and detected incidentally by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography scan imaging (CT). However, these lesions can present as spontaneous chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) causing neurological deficits that require neurosurgical intervention. CASE DESCRIPTION: We report a case of CSDH associated with AC in a 14-year-old Kuwaiti boy who presented with a 2 weeks history of headache, which was worsening over the time. Brain CT scan demonstrated a left frontotemporal large CSDH in contact with an underlying temporal AC that appeared isodense to the CSF. The patient underwent an emergency surgery to evacuate the CSDH through a burr hole, while the AC was left intact. During the postoperative period, the patient showed good recovery in terms of neurological symptoms. Follow-up MRI showed stable size of the AC with no recurrence of the CSDH. CONCLUSION: Literature’s review was done to determine the best surgical approach in treating spontaneous CSDH associated with AC. Burr hole evacuation of CSDH with irrigation only, leaving the AC intact, is a successful surgical approach for treatment and was associated with good outcome.