Syringomyelia

Definition:

A disorder involving damage to the spinal cord, caused by formation of a fluid-filled cavity within the spinal cord.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Syringomyelia is caused by formation of a fluid-filled cavity within the spinal cord. This may be a result of spinal cord trauma, tumors of the spinal cord, or congenital defects. The cavity most often begins in the neck area. It expands slowly, causing progressive damage to the spinal cord from the pressure. Symptoms result from spinal cord damage.