Video - Syringomyelia

Syringomyelia refers to a condition in which a fluid-filled cavity, or syrinx, develops within the spinal cord, and it is most commonly caused by an Arnold-Chiari II malformation. The expanding cavity interferes with the spinothalamic tract which is responsible for pain, pressure, temperature, and crude touch, and results in the loss of these sensations in a cape-like distribution along the arms and back.

Syringomyelia may cause pain, paralysis, weakness, Horner syndrome, and stiffness in the back, shoulders, and extremities. In some cases, it can cause scoliosis or an abnormal curvature of the spine. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include medications, physical therapy, and surgery.