Syringomyelia is a rare neurological disorder characterized by a fluid-filled cyst forming in the spinal cord. The spelling of this medical terminology can be tricky, but it can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word is pronounced səˌrɪŋɡoʊmaɪˈiːliə, with the emphasis on the "ma." The "y" in "myelia" is pronounced as a long "i" sound, and "syringo" starts with an "s" and ends with a "g" sound. Knowing the IPA for this word allows for proper pronunciation and communication between medical professionals.
Syringomyelia is a neurological disorder characterized by the formation of fluid-filled cavities or cysts, called syrinxes, within the spinal cord. These syrinxes gradually expand, eventually leading to the distortion and destruction of the surrounding spinal cord tissue. This condition typically occurs due to a blockage or obstruction in the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that circulates around the brain and spinal cord.
The exact cause of syringomyelia is often unknown, but it can be associated with various conditions such as Chiari malformation, a structural abnormality where brain tissue extends into the spinal canal. Other possible causes include spinal cord tumors, spinal injuries, or previous spinal surgeries. In some cases, syringomyelia can also be acquired through trauma, infection, or inflammation.
Symptoms of syringomyelia can vary greatly depending on the location and extent of the syrinxes. Common signs include progressive weakness and stiffness in the limbs, chronic pain in the neck or back, sensory abnormalities, muscle wasting, and disturbances in the bladder and bowel function.
Treatment options for syringomyelia aim to alleviate symptoms, slow down the progression of the condition, and prevent further damage to the spinal cord. This may involve surgical interventions to remove obstructions, decompress the spinal cord, or divert the flow of CSF. Additionally, management of symptoms can include medication for pain relief, physical therapy, and assistive devices to improve mobility or function. Regular monitoring and follow-ups are essential to track the progression of the disease and adjust treatment strategies accordingly.
The presence of cavities in the spinal cord due to the breaking down of gliomatous new-formations; it is marked clinically by pain and paresthesia followed by muscular atrophy of the hands; there is analgesia with thermoanesthesia of the hands and arms, but the tactile sense is preserved. Later painless whitlows are seen, spastic paralysis appears in the lower extremities, and scoliosis of the lumbar spine occurs.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Syringomyelia" is derived from two Greek words: "syrinx" meaning "tube" or "pipe", and "myelos" meaning "marrow" or "spinal cord". This neurologic disorder is characterized by the development of a fluid-filled cavity or cyst within the spinal cord, thus referring to the tubular structure within the spinal cord.