​Rathke's Cleft Cyst

Diagnosing Rathke's Cleft Cysts

To diagnose a Rathke's cleft cyst, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms as they relate to a positive Rathke's cleft cyst diagnosis.

Symptoms of Rathke's cleft cysts

Many Rathke's cleft cysts are asymptomatic, which means they do not cause any symptoms.

As the cysts get larger, they may press on a surrounding structure. Symptoms associated with compression include:

• Pituitary dysfunction
• Visual disturbances
• Headaches

Testing to diagnose Rathke's cleft cysts

Imaging studies such as MRI and CT scans can detect the presence of a mass and show its cystic character however, MRI and CT scans are insufficient for a positive Rathke's cleft cyst diagnosis.

Additional tests must be performed to help rule out other possible diagnoses, such as:

• Arachnoid cysts
• Cystic pituitary adenomas
• Epidermoid cysts

A correct diagnosis is particularly important for Rathke's cleft cysts because the treatment differs from that of other possible lesions.

The diagnosis is confirmed by a sample of the cystic capsule that is sent to pathological analysis during surgical drainage of the cyst.

Rathke's Cleft Cyst Treatment

For asymptomatic Rathke's cleft cysts, long-term observation by a doctor may be sufficient. Based on the specific nature of the patient's Rathke's cleft cyst, treatment may require surgical drainage and/or removal.

Rathke's cleft cyst surgery

Rathke's cleft cysts may be approached directly using the Endoscopic Endonasal Approach (EEA). This state-of-the-art, minimally invasive approach allows surgeons to access the cyst through the natural corridor of the nose, without making an open incision. Surgeons then remove the cyst through the nose and nasal cavities.

EEA offers the benefits of no incisions to heal, no disfigurement, and a faster recovery time.