Definition

A long-term condition affecting the spinal cord, where fluid-filled spaces form, causing muscle weakness and changes in sensation.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with syringomyelia after she reported unusual sensations in her arms.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of syringomyelia?

Yeah, I think it's a condition related to the spinal cord, right?

Exactly! It can cause some pretty serious symptoms like muscle weakness.

That's really concerning; I hope there's better awareness about syringomyelia now.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Syringomyelia is formed from "syrinx" (from Greek 'σῦριγξ', meaning tube or pipe) and "myelos" (from Greek 'μυελός', meaning marrow or spinal cord). The term describes a condition involving a fluid-filled cyst or cavity in the spinal cord, resembling a tube or pipe.

Memory Tip

Imagine a 'tube' ('syrinx') filled with fluid in the 'spinal cord' ('myelos') — that's what syringomyelia refers to.

Visually Confused Words