Symptomatic Tarlov Cysts and Occupational Outcome: A Case Report
Tarlov cysts are often asymptomatic and incidentally discovered. However, in
few cases, these cysts can be symptomatic and may manifest as chronic low
back pain. We report a case of a Tarlov cyst incidentally diagnosed by MRI in
a wiring factory worker complaining of chronic low back pain exacerbated
with the carrying of heavy loads and the hyper solicitation of the lumbar
spine during his professional activity. The clinical manifestations of sympto-
matic Tarlov cysts can influence the life quality of patients and have enorm-
ous repercussions on their work ability, which in some cases can lead to job
loss. Thus, the socio-professional aspects of symptomatic Tarlov cysts should
not be underestimated and maintaining these patients in employment should
be considered from the outset as an objective in its own right in the manage-
ment.