Syringomyelia is the development of a fluid filled cyst also known as a
syrinx in the spinal cord. This is usually associated with chiari 1
malformation and tends to occur in approximatly 50% of all cases.
A syrinx generally occurs because of the blockage by the cerebellum in
the cervical area.This is associated with numerous neurological
problems. In the US the estimated figures on this disorder are about
8.4 cases per 100,000 people. In one study, half of all people with
syringomyelia what ever the cause were in whats considered clinically
stable condition. Doctors have been unable as of yet to determine the
occurrence of syringomyelia w/chiari in different races but they do
know it occurs more frequently in men than in women. Syringomyelia
usually progresses slowly and the formation may take years. It usually
involves the cervical area and symptoms depend on where its located
some include but are not limited to sensory loss, pain, headaches,
vision problems, muscle atrophy, loss of temperature
sensation,respiratory problems may occur, sexual dysfunction,impaired
bowel and bladder function,
|
Chiari 1 Malformation is a rare congential disorder known usually to
occur during the early stages of fetal developement. It is the result
of an underdeveloped posterior crainal fossa. ( the back bottom of the
head ) In resent years with the use of MRI technology chiari has been
easier to diagnose. Early detection is extremely important in
preventing permenent neurological damage to the patient.The longer
chiari goes undetected in the patient the more likely they are to
develope a syrinx.( A fluid filled cyst in the spinal cord ) Most
doctors consider a syrinx the single most dangerous condition
associated with chiari 1. Unfortunately, the damage the syrinx causes
to the spinal cord is irreversable. Early detection can prevent most
cord damage.