Syringomyelia is a neurological development that causes a fluid-filled cyst of the syrinx within the spinal cord.. The syrinx can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots, causing a range of symptoms.

The cause of syringomyelia is not always clear, but it may be related to a blockage of the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) around the spinal cord, which can lead to the formation of a syrinx. In some cases, syringomyelia can be caused by a traumatic injury, such as a spinal cord injury or a Chiari malformation, which is a condition where the cerebellum extends into the spinal canal.

The symptoms of syringomyelia can vary depending on the location and size of the syrinx but may include pain, weakness, stiffness, loss of sensation, and bladder or bowel dysfunction. Symptoms may worsen over time as the syrinx expands and compresses more of the spinal cord.