Syringomyelia is the development of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord. When the syrinx is small, there is no symptom. When the syrinx grows larger, it may compress and damagethe spinal cord, causing pain, weakness and stiffness. The majority of cases are caused by a malformation that the brain tissue protrudes into spinal cord. MRI or CT exams are needed for diagnosing syringomyelia. If syringomyelia does not cause any symptoms, monitoring is usually enough. Otherwise, surgery may be needed.
How is Syringomyelia treated in practice?