Syringomyelia (sih-ring-go-my-E-lee-uh) is the development of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within your spinal cord. Over time, the cyst may enlarge, damaging your spinal cord and causing pain, weakness and stiffness, among other symptoms.
Syringomyelia has several possible causes, though the majority of cases are associated with a condition in which brain tissue protrudes into your spinal canal (Chiari malformation).
Other causes of syringomyelia include spinal cord tumors, spinal cord injuries and damage caused by inflammation around your spinal cord.
If syringomyelia isn't causing any problems, monitoring the condition may be all that's necessary. But if you're bothered by symptoms, you may need surgery.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
Syringomyelia symptoms usually develop slowly over time. If your syringomyelia is caused by protrusion of brain tissue into your spinal canal (Chiari malformation), symptoms generally may begin between ages 25 and 40.
In some cases, coughing or straining may trigger symptoms of syringomyelia, although neither causes syringomyelia.
The following early signs and symptoms of syringomyelia may affect the back of your neck, shoulders, arms and hands first:
Other signs and symptoms of syringomyelia may include:
If you have any of the signs or symptoms associated with syringomyelia, see your doctor. Because many signs and symptoms of syringomyelia can be associated with other disorders, a thorough medical evaluation is important for accurate diagnosis.
If you've experienced a spinal cord injury, watch carefully for signs and symptoms of syringomyelia. Many months to several years may pass after an injury before syringomyelia develops. If you have symptoms, when you go for an evaluation make sure your doctor knows you had a spinal cord injury.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
It's unclear exactly how and why syringomyelia happens. When it develops, cerebrospinal fluid â the fluid that surrounds, cushions and protects your brain and spinal cord â collects within the spinal cord itself, forming a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx).
Several conditions and diseases can lead to syringomyelia, including:
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
To diagnose syringomyelia, your doctor will begin by asking about your medical history and doing a complete physical examination.
In some cases, syringomyelia may be discovered incidentally during a spine MRI or computerized tomography (CT) scan conducted for other reasons.
If your doctor suspects syringomyelia, you'll likely undergo tests that may include:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI of your spine and spinal cord is the most reliable tool for diagnosing syringomyelia.
An MRI uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to produce detailed images of your spine and spinal cord. If a syrinx has developed within your spinal cord, your doctor will be able to view it on the MRI.
In some cases, a specialist will inject a dye into a blood vessel in your groin, which travels through blood vessels to your spine and reveals tumors or other abnormalities.
An MRI may be repeated over time to monitor the progression of syringomyelia.
Computerized tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan uses a series of X-rays to create a detailed view of your spine and spinal cord.
A CT scan may show if you have tumors or other spine conditions.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
In some people, syringomyelia can become a progressive disorder and lead to serious complications. In others, there may be no associated symptoms, and no intervention is necessary.
Complications that may occur as a syrinx enlarges or if it damages nerves within your spinal cord include:
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
Taking the following steps may help reduce the effects of syringomyelia on your daily living.
If you've been diagnosed with syringomyelia, avoid any activity that involves heavy lifting, straining or putting excessive force on your spine.
If syringomyelia causes ongoing neurological problems that decrease your mobility and activity, such as muscle weakness, pain, fatigue or stiffness, a physical therapist may be able to create an exercise program for you that can help reduce these symptoms.
Talk to your doctor about physical therapists in your area who have expertise in neurological conditions.
Chronic pain can be a problem with syringomyelia. If you're experiencing chronic pain, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Many medical centers have doctors who specialize in pain management.
Often, the most appropriate approach for treatment of chronic pain due to syringomyelia is to have a health care team that includes your neurosurgeon, neurologist, a rehabilitation specialist and a pain management physician who can work together to create an appropriate plan for your situation.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
Living with syringomyelia and its complications can be challenging. You may feel as if syringomyelia affects every aspect of your life and would love to not think about it for a day, especially if you have constant reminders, such as chronic pain or nerve issues.
Having someone to talk with or lean on can be invaluable. Whether it's a trusted friend, counselor or therapist, you may find encouragement and comfort in a good listener.
Another source of support and information may be a syringomyelia support group. Your doctor may be able to recommend a local group, or you can find groups online. Support groups provide a forum for sharing experiences and can be good sources of information, offering useful or helpful tips for people with syringomyelia.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
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