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Syringo
Syringo
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In some patients it may be necessary to drain the syrinx, which can be accomplished using a catheter, drainage tubes, and valves. In the absence of symptoms, syringomyelia is usually not treated. In addition, a physician may recommend not treating the condition in patients of advanced age or in cases where there is no progression of symptoms. Whether treated or not, many patients will be told to avoid activities that involve straining.
Investigators have found that as the heart beats, syrinx fluid is forced downward. This finding suggests a role for the cardiovascular system in syringomyelia. Surgical techniques are also being refined by the neurosurgical research community. It is also important to understand the role of birth defects in the development of hindbrain malformations that can lead to syringomyelia. Dietary supplements of folic acid during pregnancy have already been found to reduce the number of cases of certain birth defects. Diagnostic technology is another area for continued research. Diagnostic tests have improved greatly with the availability of new, non-toxic, contrast dyes. Patients can expect even better techniques to become available in the future. http://adam.about.net/encyclopedia/infectiousdiseases/Syringomyelia.htm
Syringomyelia
Definition
Syringomyelia is damage to the spinal cord due to the formation of a fluid-filled area within the cord.
Alternative Names
Syrinx
Causes
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.
Symptoms
Gradual loss of muscle mass (wasting, atrophy) Headache Muscle function loss, loss of ability to use arms or legs Numbness or decreased sensation o Decreased sense of pain or temperature o Lessened ability to sense that the skin is being touched o Neck, shoulders, upper arms, trunk -- in a cape-like pattern o Slowly, but progressively, gets worse Pain down the arms, neck, or into the upper back
Muscle contractions Rashes Spasms in or tightness of the leg muscles Uncoordinated movement
A neurologic examination may show loss of sensation or movement caused by compression of the spinal cord. An MRI of the spine confirms syringomyelia and determines the exact location and extent. Often, an MRI of the head will be done to look for associated conditions including hydrocephalus (water on the brain). Rarely, an spinal CT with myelogram may be done.
Treatment
The goals of treatment are to stop the spinal cord damage from getting worse and to maximize functioning. Surgery to relieve pressure in the spinal cord may be appropriate. Physical therapy may be needed to maximize muscular function. It may be necessary to drain the fluid build up. See: Ventriculoperitoneal shunting
Outlook (Prognosis)
Untreated, the disorder gets worse very slowly, but it eventually causes severe disability. Surgical decompression usually stops the progression of the disorder, with about 50% of people showing significant improvement in neurologic function after surgical decompression.
Possible Complications
There is no known prevention, other than avoiding trauma to the spinal cord. Prompt treatment reduces progression of the disorder.