Adhesive Arachnoiditis: Causes and Symptoms

Adhesive Arachnoiditis is a chronic, painful, and often debilitating condition that remains underrecognized and misunderstood. It can lead to severe neurological impairment, life-altering pain, and a significant impact on daily living. Early education, awareness, and support are crucial in helping patients navigate life with this complex condition.

At the Arachnoiditis & Chronic Meningitis Collaborative Research Network (ACMCRN), we are dedicated to improving understanding and supporting those affected through research, education, and community.

What is Adhesive Arachnoiditis?

Adhesive Arachnoiditis is a rare neurological disorder involving inflammation of the arachnoid layer, one of the three protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This inflammation can cause scar tissue (adhesions) to form, binding spinal nerves together and often leading to severe, chronic pain and neurological dysfunction.

Causes of Adhesive Arachnoiditis

Several known risk factors may contribute to the development of Adhesive Arachnoiditis:

Spinal Surgery and Procedures

Spinal surgeries, lumbar punctures, and procedures involving spinal hardware can trigger inflammation and adhesion formation.

Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs)

Epidural steroid injections are not considered safe for people with Arachnoiditis. The FDA has issued a Black Box Warning on the serious neurological risks of ESIs, including adhesive arachnoiditis, paralysis, and even death.

Infections

Infections like meningitis or tuberculosis can inflame the arachnoid layer, increasing the risk.

Trauma

Traumatic injuries to the spine — such as those from car accidents or falls — may lead to inflammatory changes that result in Arachnoiditis.

Symptoms of Adhesive Arachnoiditis

Symptoms vary widely but often include:

Chronic, severe neuropathic pain (burning, stabbing, shooting sensations)
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs
Bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction
Coordination and balance problems
Muscle spasms and cramps
Emotional distress, including depression and anxiety

Diagnosis of Adhesive Arachnoiditis

Diagnosing Adhesive Arachnoiditis can be challenging. A combination of medical history, symptom evaluation, and MRI imaging is typically used to confirm the presence of adhesions and inflammation.