A Tarlov cyst is a collection of fluid near the spinal cord. Its
named after Isadore Tarlov, a neurosurgeon who is credited with
first describing the condition in 1938. Most Tarlov cysts are in
the lower part of the spine. This is the sacral spine, where the
lower spine attaches to the pelvis. The cause is unknown. Its
estimated that up to 9% of people have Tarlov cysts. But most
people who have them dont know it because these cysts dont
commonly cause symptoms. Still, Tarlov cysts can get bigger and
squeeze or irritate the nerves near or in the spinal cord. When
there are symptoms, they include: - Pain in the buttock or down
the leg - Weakness or numbness (or both) in the legs -
Difficulty sitting, standing or walking for long periods -
Incontinence (inability to control bladder or bowels) - Problems
with sexual function The sciatic nerve is commonly affected,
too. Thats because its location near the lower spine where
Tarlov cysts form. You want to confirm that the Tarlov cysts are
the actual cause of the sc