Syringomyelia

Definition

A rare disorder characterized by the formation of a cyst in the spinal cord. It results in weakness, pain, and stiffness in the shoulders, arms, legs, or back. It may be associated with Chiari malformation. Other causes include spinal cord injury, inflammation, or tumor. (NCI Thesaurus)

More information

Syringomyelia is a rare disorder that causes a cyst to form in your spinal cord. This cyst, called a syrinx, gets bigger and longer over time, destroying part of the spinal cord. Damage to the spinal cord from the syrinx can cause symptoms such as

• Pain and weakness in the back, shoulders, arms or legs
• Headaches
• Inability to feel hot or cold

Symptoms vary according to the size and location of the syrinx. They often begin in early adulthood.

Syringomyelia usually results from a skull abnormality called a Chiari I malformation. A tumor, meningitis or physical trauma can also cause it. Surgery is the main treatment. Some people also need to have the syrinx drained. Medicines can help ease pain. In some cases, there are no symptoms, so you may not need treatment. (NIH)

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