Syrinx (Syringomyelia; enlargement of the Central canal)

A syrinx is a pathological tube-shaped cavity in the brain or spinal cord. Syrinxes can be caused by several conditions, the most common is association with a Chiari malformation. Intramedullary spinal cord tumors can also cause Syrinxes (Syringomyelia). Syrinxes can develop after trauma to the spinal cord or with any blockage of the flow of within the Central canal such as with compression from a tumor or scarring of the Ependyma from Meningitis.