Choroidal fissure cyst

A choroidal fissure cyst is a benign, fluid-filled sac located in the brain.

Specifically, it forms along the choroidal fissure, a natural cleft between the thalamus and the hippocampus in the temporal lobe.

These cysts are usually asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally during imaging for other reasons.

They are typically filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and do not exert mass effect on surrounding brain structures.

Choroidal fissure cysts are generally considered to be congenital, meaning they are present at birth, although they can occasionally be acquired later in life.

Most individuals with these cysts do not experience any symptoms, but in rare cases, if the cyst becomes large, it may cause headaches, seizures, or other neurological symptoms due to compression of nearby structures.

Diagnosis of a choroidal fissure cyst is typically made using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, which can reveal the fluid-filled nature of the cyst.

Treatment is rarely required unless the cyst causes symptoms, in which case surgical intervention may be considered.

However, monitoring through regular imaging is often sufficient.

Understanding choroidal fissure cysts is important for clinicians to differentiate them from other potential pathologies in the brain, ensuring appropriate management and reassurance for patients.