Syringomyelia

What it is

Syringomyelia is a condition in which a fluid-filled cavity, called a syrinx, develops within the spinal cord. It is commonly associated with Chiari malformation, arising from the disrupted cerebrospinal fluid flow at the craniocervical junction.

Understanding Syringomyelia

In Chiari malformation, the obstruction of CSF flow at the foramen magnum is thought to drive fluid into the spinal cord, where it accumulates as a syrinx. The syrinx most often forms in the cervical (neck) region and can expand over time. As it grows, it can damage the surrounding cord tissue, producing symptoms such as altered sensation (especially to pain and temperature, often in a "cape-like" distribution), weakness, muscle wasting, and, if extensive, other problems. Syringomyelia is a major reason Chiari is treated, because the presence of a syrinx is often an indication for surgery (even in some people without other symptoms). Importantly, relieving the CSF obstruction with decompression often causes the syrinx to shrink. Understanding syringomyelia clarifies a key associated condition and a central reason Chiari is treated.

Why it matters

Understanding syringomyelia helps families see why a fluid cavity in the spinal cord is a serious associated condition in Chiari, a common reason for surgery, and why treating the Chiari often shrinks the syrinx.