Syringomyelia is damage to the spinal cord due to the formation of a fluid-filled area within the cord.
Alternative NamesSyrinx
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsThe fluid buildup seen in syringomyelia may be a result of spinal cord trauma, tumors of the spinal cord, or birth defects (specifically, "chiari malformation," in which part of the brain pushes down onto the spinal cord at the base of the skull).
The fluid-filled cavity usually begins in the neck area. It expands slowly, putting pressure on the spinal cord and slowly causing damage.
SymptomsThere may be no symptoms, or symptoms may include:
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
A neurologic examination may show loss of sensation or movement caused by compression of the spinal cord.
An MRI of the spine confirms syringomyelia and determines the exact location and extent. Often, an MRI of the head will be done to look for associated conditions including hydrocephalus (water on the brain).
Rarely, an spinal CT with myelogram may be done.
TreatmentThe goals of treatment are to stop the spinal cord damage from getting worse and to maximize functioning. Surgery to relieve pressure in the spinal cord may be appropriate. Physical therapy may be needed to maximize muscular function.
It may be necessary to drain the fluid build up. See: Ventriculoperitoneal shunting
Expectations (prognosis)Untreated, the disorder gets worse very slowly, but it eventually causes severe disability. Surgical decompression usually stops the progression of the disorder, with about 50% of people showing significant improvement in neurologic function after surgical decompression.
ComplicationsWithout treatment, the condition will lead to:
Possible complications of surgery include:
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of syringomyelia.
PreventionThere is no known prevention, other than avoiding trauma to the spinal cord. Prompt treatment reduces progression of the disorder.
ReferencesFeske SK, Cochrane TI. Degenerative and compressive structural disorders. In: Goetz CG, ed. Textbook of Clinical Neurology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 29.
Golden JA, Bonnemann CG. Etiological categories of neurological diseases. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 28.