Spine Conditions
Syringomyelia
Syringomyelia is a rare neurological condition in which a cyst, called a syrinx, forms within the spinal cord. The syrinx gradually expands, causing damage to the spinal cord and leading to a variety of symptoms. The condition is usually caused by a blockage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow in the spinal cord, which can be due to a number of underlying causes. Syringomyelia can affect people of any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in young adults.
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Symptoms
The symptoms of syringomyelia can vary greatly from person to person depending on the size and location of the syrinx. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain and weakness in the shoulders, arms, and hands
- Loss of sensation or numbness in the hands and fingers
- Muscle weakness or atrophy
- Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as writing or buttoning a shirt
- Bowel or bladder dysfunction
- Curvature of the spine (scoliosis)
- Headaches and neck pain
- Muscle stiffness and spasms
Causes
The most common cause of syringomyelia is a blockage of CSF flow in the spinal cord. This can occur for a number of reasons, including:
- Chiari malformation: a structural defect in the brain that can cause the cerebellum to push down into the spinal canal, blocking CSF flow.
- Trauma: spinal cord injuries or other types of trauma can cause scarring or inflammation that blocks CSF flow.
- Tumors: spinal cord tumors can disrupt CSF flow and cause syringomyelia.
- Infections: certain infections, such as meningitis, can cause inflammation and scarring that block CSF flow.
- Congenital defects: rare congenital defects can also cause syringomyelia.