Syringomyelia (patient information)

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What is Syringomyelia?

Syringomyelia is damage to the spinal cord due to the formation of a fluid-filled area within the cord.

What are the symptoms of Syringomyelia?

• Gradual loss of muscle mass (wasting, atrophy)
• Headache
• Muscle function loss, loss of ability to use arms or legs
• Numbness or decreased sensation
  • Decreased sense of pain or temperature
  • Lessened ability to sense that the skin is being touched
  • Neck, shoulders, upper arms, trunk -- in a cape-like pattern
  • Slowly, but progressively, gets worse
• Pain down the arms, neck, or into the upper back
• Weakness (decreased muscle strength, independent of exercise) in the arms or legs

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

• Muscle contractions
• Rashes
• Spasms in or tightness of the leg muscles
• Uncoordinated movement

What causes Syringomyelia?

The 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.

How do I know I have Syringomyelia?

A neurologic examination may show loss of sensation or movement caused by compression of the spinal cord.

A spinal CT with myelogram or 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).

Where to find medical care for Syringomyelia

Directions to Hospitals Treating Syringomyelia