Syringomyelia
Alternate Names : Syrinx
Definition
Syringomyelia is damage to the spinal cord due to the formation of a fluid-filled area within the cord.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
The fluid buildup seen in syringomyelia may be a result of spinal cord trauma, tumors of the spinal cord, or birth defects (specifically, "chiari malformation," in which part of the brain pushes down onto the spinal cord at the base of the skull). The fluid-filled cavity usually begins in the neck area. It expands slowly, putting pressure on the spinal cord and slowly causing damage.
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