10 Side Effects of Spinal Taps
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Side Effect #5: Adhesive Arachnoiditis
Arachnoiditis is a condition where the arachnoid mater is inflamed. The arachnoid mater is one of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Inflammation can occur due to a bacterial infection, viral infection, side effect of chemicals, complications from spinal surgery, chronic compression of spinal nerves, and invasive spinal procedures.
When inflammation occurs, it can result in the formation of scar tissue and adhesion causing the spinal meninges to “stick” together. This is known as adhesive arachnoiditis, an extremely painful condition. Adhesive arachnoiditis is a very rare side effect or complication of a spinal tap.
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