What is syringomyelia? Syringomyelia is a disorder in which a fluid-filled cyst (called a syrinx) forms within the spinal cord. Over time, the syrinx can get bigger and can damage the spinal cord and compress and injure the nerve fibers that carry information to the brain and from the brain to the rest of the
body. In syringomyelia, the watery liquid known as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)—which normally surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord—builds up within the tissue of the spinal cord, expands the central canal and forms a syrinx. Generally, a syrinx develops when the normal flow of CSF around the spinal cord or lower brain stem is disturbed. When syrinxes affect the brain stem, the condition is
called syringobulbia. top Symptoms of damage to the spinal cord vary among individuals according to where the syrinx forms, how large it is, and how long it extends. Symptoms develop slowly over time and may occur on one or both sides of the body. Symptoms may
include: top Syringomyelia may have several possible causes but most cases are associated with Chiari
malformation—an abnormal condition in which brain tissue extends through the hole at the bottom of the skull (foramen magnum) and into the spinal canal and obstructs the flow of CSF. Syringomyelia may also be caused by spinal cord injuries, spinal cord tumors, and damage caused by inflammation in around the spinal cord. In some cases, the cause is unknown (idiopathic). top What are the forms of syringomyelia?Syringomyelia has two major forms:
top How is syringomyelia diagnosed?A physician will review the person's medical history, perform a physical exam focusing on neurological function, and order imaging of the spine or brain. Sometimes, syringomyelia may be found during diagnostic imaging for another disorder. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most reliable way to diagnose syringomyelia. Using this test, a physician can determine if there is a syrinx in the spine or another abnormality, such as a tumor. In some cases, multiple MRI images may be taken in rapid succession (called dynamic MRI) to show the flow of fluid around the spinal cord and within the syrinx. A dye or contrast agent may be injected to enhance the MRI images. top How is syringomyelia treated?Treatment for syringomyelia depends on the severity and progression of symptoms. Monitoring Surgery
top What research is being done?The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH),is the primary funder of research on the brain and spinal cord. The NIH is the leading supporter of biomedical research in the world. Genetics and birth defects Studies are underway to better understand the role of genetic factors in Chiari I malformation, the most common cause of syringomyelia. Individuals with a Chiari I malformation who also have a family member with either the abnormality or syringomyelia are being studied to identify the location of the gene(s) responsible for the malformation. In some cases, birth defects may be associated with brain malformations that can cause syringomyelia. Learning how and when these defects occur during fetal development may help scientists develop strategies that can stop the formation of certain birth defects. The use of folic acid dietary supplements during pregnancy, for example, has been found to reduce the risk of birth defects of the brain and spinal cord, including malformations of the skull, brain, and spine. Treatments NINDS scientists are investigating the factors that influence its development, progression, and response to treatment by recording more than 5 years of symptoms, muscle strength, overall function, and MRI findings from individuals who receive standard treatment for syringomyelia. Study results may allow scientists to provide more accurate recommendations to future patients with syringomyelia regarding optimal surgical or non-surgical treatments. Also, NIH-funded scientists are trying to find ways to stop and reverse the cell damage caused by a spinal cord injury to help individuals recover their ability to move their muscles and other functions. Diagnostic tools Diagnostic technology is another area for continued research. Ongoing NIH-funded research is aimed at improving diagnostic imaging techniques to better visualize conditions in the spine, including syringomyelia, even before symptoms appear. In addition, NINDS has developed common data elements for Chiari I Malformation. This allows researchers to communicate in a common scientific language, improve data quality, and explore research opportunities that compare and combine data from multiple institutions. top Where can I get more information?For more information on neurological disorders or research programs funded by NINDS, contact the Institute's Brain Resources and Information Network (BRAIN) at: BRAIN More information about research on syringomyelia supported by NINDS and other NIH Institutes and Centers can be found using NIH RePORTER, a searchable database of current and past research projects supported by NIH and other federal agencies. RePORTER also includes links to publications and resources from these projects. Information also is available from the following organizations: American Chronic Pain Association American Syringomyelia
& Chiari Alliance Project Bobby Jones Chiari and Syringomyelia Foundation Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) National Institutes of Health top Online text last updated May 18, 2021 Is an interruption in a stroke caused by removing the pen from the paper?pen lift, n—an interruption in a stroke caused by removing the writing document from the writing surface.
Is the rudimentary initial up stroke of a letter?5. BEARD - is the rudimentary initial up stroke of a letter. 6. BLUNT - the beginning and ending stroke of a letter (without hesitation).
Is a group of muscles that push the pen to form the upward strokes?1. Extensor muscles- push the pen to form an upward stroke.
What is a blunt stroke in handwriting?Blunt strokes - the untapered beginning or ending of an individual letter. Shows the pen is at rest on the paper at the start or finish which can be indicative of a tracing or simulation.
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