Fluid filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord which can expand or elongate over time, destroying surrounding spinal cord tissue.
Can be due to dilation of the neural tissue surrounding the central canal itself (which can lead to obstructive hydrocephalus), or it can arise from within the parenchyma of the spinal cord.
Typically occurs in the C2 and T9 distribution.
Most commonly occurs in patients with a pre-existing Chiari malformation.
Usually seen in young adults
Most commonly insidious in onset but the effects of the cyst may manifest suddenly after coughing or sneezing
Congenital
Secondary to Arnold Chiari malformation
Associated with hydrocephalus
Acquired
Secondary to an insult to the brain or spinal cord
Examples: stroke, trauma, meningitis, hemorrhage, or tumor
Secondary to Arnold Chiari malformation
Associated with hydrocephalus
Secondary to an insult to the brain or spinal cord
Examples: stroke, trauma, meningitis, hemorrhage, or tumor
Syringomyelia
Brain tumor
Anterior cord syndrome
Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Conus medullaris syndrome
Acute myelopathy
Central cord syndrome
Brain stroke