Syringomyelia: Causes, Symptoms, Daignosis, Prevention and Treatment

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Syringomyelia
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Syringomyelia

• Syringomyelia is a gradual disorder in which a
  fluid-filled cyst, or syrinx, forms within the
  spinal cord. With the increase in time, the cyst
  grows larger, further causing compression and
  damage to the spinal cord. The initiation of
  syrinx is most likely to found in the neck
  (cervical spine), but can develop anywhere along
  the spinal cord.

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Causes of Syringomyelia

• Syringomyelia can be caused by, or can be a
  complication of
• Birth defects, like Chiari malformation
• Hemorrhage (bleeding)
• Inflammation of the spinal cord (e.g.,
  meningitis)
• Spinal cord injury (trauma)
• Spinal cord tumor

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Diagnosis of Syringomyelia

• A physical and neurologic examination may reveal
  loss of feeling or an inability to move normally
  (such as walk). Diagnostic tests of the spine may
  include a CT scan with contrast dye or an
  MRI.Early syringomyelia detection is crucial,
  as a delay in treatment can cause irreversible
  spinal cord injury. At the first sign of
  symptoms, visit your doctor.

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Symptoms of Syringomyelia

• As the body is connected to the brain, a damaged
  spinal cord disturbs the brain's ability to
  communicate. However, each patient's symptoms may
  differ, common syringomyelia symptoms include
• Pain, stiffness, or weakness in the neck, arms,
  back, or legs
• Progressive numbness
• Headache
• Sensitivity to heat and cold
• Muscle wasting, contractions, spasticity (tight
  muscles)
• Skin rash
• The symptoms of syringomyelia usually grow
  slowly, yet exercise, coughing, or otherwise
  straining can bring on a sudden onset.

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Treatment for Syringomyelia

• Some patients who are having syringomyelia may
  have no symptoms for these patients, the doctor
  may choose a "watch and wait" approach. These
  patients can go about their normal lives, being
  cautious about avoiding cervical (neck) and back
  strain.Pregnancy and vaginal delivery can be a
  relative contraindication for patients with
  syringomyelia. The patients who are pregnant may
  require special care as pushing and straining
  during vaginal delivery can potentially enlarge a
  syrinx. Although a C-section may be advised,
  patients should have a full discussion with their
  doctor.The primary treatment goals are to stop
  or control damage to the spinal cord, preserve
  function, and prevent disability for patients who
  are experiencing symptoms of syringomyelia.Treat
  ment options include draining or surgical removal
  of the syrinx. Physical therapy may be included
  in the treatment plan to help the patient rebuild
  lost muscle strength and regain flexibility.

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