When is a colloid cyst removed?

The presence of hydrocephalus is known to be a risk factor of acute worsening or sudden death due to colloid cyst. Surgical removal should therefore be recommended even if a person has no symptoms but increased ventricular size (hydrocephalus).

What causes a colloid cyst in the brain?

The cause of a colloid cyst is unknown, but it is believed to have its roots in fetal development. The rind (wall) of the cyst is a remnant of normal embryologic tissue. There is nothing known to cause a colloid cyst — it is not associated with exposure to radiation, cell phone use, or prenatal care.

Do brain cysts have to be removed?

Typically, most brain cysts are benign and do not require surgical removal. If surgery is necessary, the surgeon will either drain or remove the cyst. Many brain cysts are congenital, but sometimes, they can indicate an underlying condition, such as cancer or an infection.

Does a colloid cyst have to be removed?

Because a colloid cyst can obstruct the flow of fluid into the brain’s third ventricle, it requires immediate medical attention. Common symptoms of colloid cysts include memory problems, headaches, loss of consciousness, and confusion. Surgery to remove the colloid cyst generally cures a person with this condition.

What was my experience with colloid cyst and surgical removal?

A few months ago forums like this one, with plenty of experiences from people suffering from colloid cyst, helped me tremendously. It helped me understand the condition much better, be ready for what the surgery would be like, and what to expect post-op.

Can a colloid cyst spread to other parts of the body?

Because your colloid cyst is benign, it will not spread to other areas of the body like some cancers do. However, because it can continue to grow throughout your entire life, it does have the potential to grow large enough to create a dangerous blockage. Sometimes a colloid cyst is small enough that immediate treatment may not be necessary.

How big is the colloid cyst in my neck?

It was then when I found out about the 22.4 x 23.2 mm bastard, named colloid cyst, which had reached the critical size to cause severe hydrocephalus. I got scheduled for priority surgery around 10 days after diagnosis, with a further MRI to confirm the condition.

What did they do to the cyst in my arm?

They had also carried out a ventriculostomy (an artificial hole in the ventricle to allow for CSF drainage should the natural hole not work properly even after cyst removal). I woke up from the anaesthesia in the recovery room, still groggy, and I had many more IVs on my arms than before the surgery, and also a urine catheter.