Causes of Syringomyelia

Syringomyelia occurs when a obstruction causes the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is blocked. CSF flows around the brain and spinal canal where it acts as a cushion to protect the central nervous system and transports nutrients and waste products. When the CSF flow is blocked it is diverted to spinal cord and central canal. This accumulates within the spinal cord tissue and forms a fluid filled sac called a Syrinx. The pressure on the nerves of the spinal cord is what can cause damage over a period of time.

There are two types of Syringomyelia that can occur. Mostly syringomyelia forms as a result of a chiari malformation, where the cerebellum bulges into the spinal canal blocking the flow of the CSF between the brain and spine. This is called communicating syringomyelia and syrinx's often form higher in the cervical spine. If the blockage is not relieved it can expand causes further damage. 

The second form of syringomyelia found is called noncommunicating syringomyelia which occurs after a trauma, meningitis, hemorrhage or tumor among other things. Symptoms can occur years after the initial injury usually starting with pain and weakness in the lower extremities. Some syringomyelia is considered idiopathic (unknown origin). Treatment varies for each, but the general approach is to regain the flow of the CSF to decrease the size of the syrinx and stop progression of symptoms.