Syringomyelia: An Expanding Problem

Abstract

Syringomyelia, a central cavitation of the spinal cord, was once thought to be a rare disorder. Associated with congenital malformations as well as trauma and tumors, a syringomyelia can cause a variety of sensory complaints, including parasthesias, changes in temperature recognition, and pain. Other symptoms may range from gastrointestinal problems to shoulder arthropathy. Left unchecked, a syringomyelia can expand and lead to permanent disability. The nurse practitioner should be suspicious of the presence of a syrinx in patients who have otherwise unexplained sensory deficits that follow cervical or thoracic dermatomes.

Painless burn injury caused by post-traumatic syringomyelia

“…The tumor can cause necrosis or arachnoiditis along with cavitation [7]. In addition, congenital syrinxes are often found in association with Chiari I malformations, which are congenital protrusions of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum into the cervical spinal canal [1]. In our case, MRI did not show tumoral lesion and contrast enhancement suggested neither arachnoiditis nor Chiari malformation.…”

“…However, some evidence derived from MRI could help to distinguish between incidental and crucial etiologic causes in cases of syringomyelia. Acquired syrinxes may be associated with trauma and are more often found in the lumbar or thoracic regions [1]. These syrinxes may also be associated with tumors; fluid secreted by the tumor can be found in the cavity.…”

“…This injury was caused by sudden flexion and extension of the head (whiplash injury). Although syringomyelia has been reported as being frequently associated with congenital abnormalities, especially Chiari I malformation, it is also reported to be associated with tumors, cerebral hemorrhage, and meningitis [1]. Post-traumatic syringomyelia (PTS) is a relatively rare condition, but its complications can be serious [4].…”

“…Syringomyelia, a central cavitation of the spinal cord, was once thought to be a rare disorder [1]. Associated with congenital malformations as well as trauma and tumors, a syringomyelia can cause a variety of sensory complaints, including paresthesia, changes in temperature recognition, and pain [1,2].…”

“…Associated with congenital malformations as well as trauma and tumors, a syringomyelia can cause a variety of sensory complaints, including paresthesia, changes in temperature recognition, and pain [1,2].…”