Syringomyelia Flashcards
1
Q
Definition
A
collection of cerebrospinal fluid within the spinal cord.
2
Q
Causes of syringomyelia
A
Chiari malformation
trauma
tumours
idiopathic
3
Q
What is syringobulbia and how is it different from syringomyelia?
A
- fluid-filled cavity within the medulla of the brainstem
- often an extension of the syringomyelia
- in rare cases can be an isolated finding.
4
Q
Clinical features of syringomyelia
A
- ‘cape-like’ loss of sensation to temperature
- preserved light touch/proprioception
- spastic weakness
- neuropathic pain
- upgoing plantars
- autonomic features: bowels/bladder
Horner’s syndrome
5
Q
What complication can occur over a matter of years if syringomyelia is not treated?
A
Scoliosis
6
Q
Investigations required to diagnose syringomyelia
A
MRI spine with contrast
- exclude tumour or tethered cord
MRI brain
- to exclude a Chiari malformation
7
Q
Management
A
- treat cause of syrinx
- if persistent/ symptomatic syrinx then a shunt can be placed into the syrinx
8
Q
A
