Syringomyelia

An uncollapsed syrinx (before surgery). Syringomyelia (IPA: [sɪˌrɪŋgomaɪˈiːliə]) is a disorder in which a cyst or tubular cavity forms within the spinal cord. This cyst, called a syrinx, expands and elongates over time, destroying the center of the spinal cord. Since the spinal cord connects the brain to nerves in the extremities, this damage results in pain, weakness, and stiffness in the back, shoulders, arms, or legs. Other symptoms may include headaches and a loss of the ab ...