Posttraumatic syringomyelia

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1985

Abstract

Posttraumatic syringomyelia can be a subtle entity initially. Awareness of the early clinical manifestations is a necessary adjunct in preventing the disabling sequela. Four case reports are examined with emphasis on temporal progression of symptoms and the resultant functional loss. The salient clinical features and a description of their pathogenesis are summarized. The presenting symptoms and signs were upper extremity reflex loss, musculoskeletal-type pain, and arm numbness. The functional impairments which resulted included the following: increased assistance with wheelchair mobility, significantly reduced performance of ADL, and loss of walking skill in a previously independent ambulator. Each patient underwent myelography (insufficient alone) as well as contrast CT scanning. Each patient underwent shunting with only one patient benefiting significantly. Syrinx formation must be included in the differential diagnosis of neuromuscular complaints by the spinal cord injured (SCI) population and treated appropriately.

Publication Title

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Volume

66

Issue

5

First Page

329

Last Page

331

Comments

This article was published in Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 66, Issue 5, Pages 329-331.

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