Arachnoiditis and root clumping
Understanding the Condition
Arachnoiditis is a severe inflammatory disorder affecting the arachnoid mater, one of the key protective membranes around the spinal cord. The resulting inflammation can trigger scar tissue formation and adhesions, causing nerve roots to stick together—a phenomenon known as root clumping. This disrupts nerve function and cerebrospinal fluid circulation, often resulting in debilitating pain and neurological dysfunction.
Clinically, arachnoiditis can arise spontaneously in patients with connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) or in post-infectious states, highlighting the complex immunological backdrop of the condition.
What Triggers Arachnoiditis?
Multiple factors can lead to the onset of this condition:
- Prior spinal surgeries or trauma
- Epidural procedures and spinal anesthesia
- Infections like meningitis or TB
- Post-viral syndromes
- Chronic disc pathology and spinal stenosis
- Exposure to contrast dyes in outdated imaging studies
Progression involves thickening of the arachnoid layer and entrapment of nerve roots, seen as radiological root clumping.
Recognizing Root Clumping
MRI imaging, particularly in T2-weighted sequences, shows root clumping as the hallmark “empty sac” or “grape cluster” sign. Patients often report:
- Burning neuropathic pain
- Sensory abnormalities
- Muscle weakness
- Gait disturbances
- Autonomic dysfunction affecting bladder or bowel
When standard MRI fails to confirm diagnosis, a prone lumbar MRI can reveal clumping more accurately.
Diagnostic Excellence at Promohealth
We go beyond standard imaging. Our approach includes:
- Upright or prone lumbar MRI with AI enhancement
- Evoked potentials (SSEP, MEP)
- Electromyography (EMG)
- Immune system profiling to uncover autoimmune or post-infectious mechanisms
Our Barcelona center combines cutting-edge technology with neurosurgical expertise to deliver precise, patient-centered diagnostics.
Treatment Options: Tailored to the Individual
Non-Surgical Pathways:
- Neuropathic medications (gabapentin, pregabalin)
- Physical therapy and hydrotherapy
- Neuromodulation (e.g., spinal cord stimulation (SCS))
- Anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating protocols
Surgical Solutions:
- Microsurgical lysis of adhesions
- Duroplasty to decompress the thecal sac
- Shunting in cases with cysts or CSF blockage
These procedures are conducted under intraoperative neuro-navigation at Teknon Hospital.
Why Choose Promohealth
We are Europe’s only highly specialized center combining:
- Neurosurgical expertise
- Experience with EDS and complex spinal syndromes
- Pioneering imaging diagnostics
- Multidisciplinary treatment strategy
If you suspect arachnoiditis or suffer from unexplained neurological symptoms, we can help. Schedule your evaluation today via DrGilete.com.
Arachnoiditis and its associated root clumping phenomenon require a high level of expertise to accurately diagnose and manage. At Promohealth, we specialize in identifying complex spinal conditions often missed by standard evaluations. We utilize advanced imaging techniques such as lumbar prone MRI and perform immune system profiling to understand the underlying mechanisms of the disease.
Our tailored therapeutic strategies combine conservative treatments, neuromodulation, and surgical options when necessary. If you are dealing with unexplained neurological symptoms and suspect arachnoiditis, we encourage you to contact us for an evaluation.
Visit our Specialties section at DrGilete.com to learn more or schedule a personalized consultation.
