The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Syringomyelia

A progressive neurological disorder caused by formation of a fluid-filled cavity (syrinx) within the spinal cord.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Syringomyelia?

Syringomyelia is a condition characterized by the formation of an abnormal fluid-filled cavity (syrinx) within the spinal cord tissue. This cavity can expand over time and compress surrounding nerve fibers, leading to progressive neurological symptoms.

It is most often associated with Chiari malformation; however it can also be caused by spinal cord tumors, trauma, arachnoiditis and idiopathic causes. Forms affecting the cervical spinal cord cause pain and sensory loss in the shoulder, neck and arms.

Definitive diagnosis is made by MRI. Treatment of the underlying cause (e.g., Chiari surgery) can shrink the syrinx; in some cases direct intervention to the syrinx may be necessary.

Symptoms

Pain in the neck, back or shoulders
Cape-distribution sensory loss in the arms (loss of temperature and pain sensation)
Weakness in hands and arms
Balance disturbance
Bladder and bowel dysfunction
Sweating disorders

Risk Factors

Chiari Type 1 malformation
History of spinal cord injury
Spinal cord tumor or cyst
Past arachnoiditis (CSF membrane inflammation)
Kyphoscoliosis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If cape-distribution neck-arm pain and sensory loss occur together
  • If hand weakness or muscle wasting begins
  • If new bladder control disturbance develops
  • If neurological symptoms appear in someone previously diagnosed with Chiari

Treatment Methods

01
Treatment of the underlying cause (Chiari surgery, tumor resection)
02
Syringosubarachnoid or syringoperitoneal shunt for syrinx-related compression
03
Physical therapy and pain management
04
Drug therapy for spasticity
05
Monitoring syrinx size with regular MRI

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Nöroloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Headache and Migraine

Nöroloji

What you need to know about headache types, migraine attacks, and triggering factors.

Low Back Pain

Nöroloji

Learn about the most common causes of low back pain, risk factors, and appropriate treatment approaches.

Neck Pain and Cervical Disc Herniation

Nöroloji

Learn about the symptoms and treatment options for cervical disc herniation and problems in the neck region.

Epilepsy

Nöroloji

Accurate information about epilepsy, types of seizures, and recommendations for patients and families.

Parkinson Disease

Nöroloji

Parkinson disease is caused by progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and alpha-synuclein accumulation; well-timed therapy substantially improves function and quality of life.

Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

Nöroloji

Information about early signs, diagnosis, and the care process for Alzheimer's and other types of dementia.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Nöroloji

What is multiple sclerosis, who is at risk, and which treatments are applied?

Stroke

Nöroloji

What is stroke, what are the FAST signs, and why is emergency intervention critical?

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.