Syringomyelia
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Syringomyelia (sih-ring-go-my-E-lee-uh) is the development of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within your spinal cord. Over time, the cyst may enlarge, damaging your spinal cord and causing pain, weakness and stiffness, among other symptoms. Syringomyelia has several possible causes, though the majority of cases are associated with a condition in which brain tissue protrudes into your spinal canal (Chiari malformation). Other causes of syringomyelia include spinal cord tumors, spinal cord injuries and damage caused by inflammation around your spinal cord. If syringomyelia isn't causing any problems, monitoring the condition may be all that's necessary. But if you're bothered by symptoms, you may need surgery.
This video in 30 seconds
This video explains syringomyelia, the development of a fluid-filled cyst, called a syrinx, within the spinal cord. It covers the cyst enlarging over time and damaging the cord, causing pain, weakness and stiffness, the association of most cases with Chiari malformation, other causes including tumors, injuries and inflammation, and monitoring or surgery depending on symptoms.
Key points
- Defines syringomyelia as a fluid-filled cyst within the spinal cord
- Covers pain, weakness and stiffness as effects of cord damage
- Identifies Chiari malformation as the association in most cases
- Notes tumors, spinal cord injuries and inflammation as other causes
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