Syringomyelitis is a neurological disorder characterized by the formation of a fluid-filled cavity or cyst within the spinal cord. The spelling of this complex medical term can be broken down phonetically as /ˌsaɪrɪŋɡoʊˌmaɪəˈlaɪtɪs/. The prefix "syringo" refers to the cyst, while "myel" refers to the spinal cord, and the suffix "-itis" denotes inflammation. Overall, the spelling of syringomyelitis can be challenging due to its combination of Greek and Latin roots, but it accurately reflects the root causes and symptoms of this condition.
Syringomyelitis is a medical condition characterized by the formation of a fluid-filled cavity or cavity-like structure within the spinal cord. It is classified as a type of spinal cord disorder and is often associated with other underlying conditions. The term "syringomyelitis" is derived from two components: "syringo," which refers to a tube or cylindrical structure, and "myelitis," which denotes inflammation of the spinal cord.
The condition typically develops due to disturbances in the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the spinal cord. This disruption can arise from a variety of causes, including congenital abnormalities, trauma, infection, or obstruction. As a result, the accumulation of CSF in the spinal cord can lead to compression and damage of the surrounding neural tissues.
Symptoms of syringomyelitis vary depending on the location and size of the fluid-filled cavity within the spinal cord. Common signs include pain, muscle weakness, sensory disturbances (such as numbness or tingling), and issues with bladder or bowel control. Over time, these symptoms can progress and potentially lead to additional complications, such as paralysis or abnormalities in the spinal cord's reflexes.
Treatment for syringomyelitis typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. Depending on the severity and symptoms experienced by the patient, treatment options may include medication to manage pain or inflammation, surgical intervention to alleviate pressure or remove obstructions, or rehabilitation therapies to improve function and mobility. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for syringomyelitis.
Inflammation of the spinal cord with the formation of cavities in its substance; syringomyelia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "syringomyelitis" is composed of three elements: "syringo-", "myelo-", and "-itis".
1. "Syringo-" is derived from the Greek word "syrinx", meaning "tube" or "pipe". It is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to conditions involving fluid-filled cavities or tubular structures.
2. "Myelo-" comes from the Greek word "myelos", which translates to "marrow" or "spinal cord" in medical terms. It relates specifically to the spinal cord in this context.
3. "-itis" is a suffix in medical terminology meaning "inflammation". It is used to describe various conditions involving inflammation.
Therefore, "syringomyelitis" refers to an inflammatory condition that affects the spinal cord, specifically involving the formation of fluid-filled cavities.