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Syringomyelia

Alternative Names: Syrinx Symptoms: Numbness or decreased sensation Neck, shoulders, upper arms, trunk in a cape-like distribution Slowly, but progressively worsens Lessened ability to sense that the skin is being touched Decreased sense of pain or temperature Weakness (decreased muscle strength, independent of exercise) in the arms or legs Gradual loss of muscle mass (wasting, atrophy) Muscle function loss, loss of ability to use arms or legs Headache Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease: Rashes Muscle contractions Uncoordinated movement Spasticity Signs and tests: Text Continues Below Neurologic examination may show loss of sensation or movement caused by compression of the spinal cord. A spinal CT with myelogram or 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).

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