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

The fluid build-up seen in syringomyelia may be a result of spinal cord trauma, tumors of the spinal cord, or birth defects.

The fluid-filled area (cavity) most often begins in the neck area. It expands slowly, putting pressure on the spinal cord and slowly causing damage.

Syringomyelia may occur in certain developmental problems of the nervous system, including Chiari malformations.

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

• Rashes
• Muscle contractions
• Uncoordinated movement
• Spasticity

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).