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Syringomyelia and Hydromyelia (Syrinx)

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Syringomyelia is a disease in which a cyst forms at the centre of your child’s spinal cord. The cyst (also known as syrinx) is filled with a fluid known as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The cyst can get larger over time and cause symptoms such as pain and weakness.

Hydromyelia is the widening of the spinal cord central canal creating a cavity which gets filled up with cerebrospinal fluid.

It is very difficult to distinguish between syringomyelia and hydromyelia, as both have similar clinical presentations, and therefore at times a collective term called syrinx is used to refer to the fluid collection in the spinal cord.

There can be several causes of syringomyelia and hydromyelia, such as Chiari malformation in which brain tissue protrudes into the spinal canal, or spinal tumours and injuries.

When to seek expert advise

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, especially in severity, make an appointment with your specialist working with the Mind and Brain Service Line at The Aga Khan University Hospital.​

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Disclaimer

The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.