Syringomyelia

To diagnose syringomyelia, your healthcare provider will review your medical history and perform a physical exam focusing on neurological function. They may refer you to a neurologist, a provider who specializes in disorders of the brain and nervous system.

Your provider will likely order imaging tests of your spine or brain. In some cases, healthcare providers discover syringomyelia accidentally on imaging tests that were ordered for another medical reason.

What tests will be done to diagnose this condition?

If your healthcare provider suspects you have syringomyelia, they may recommend one or more of the following tests:

• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan: An MRI scan is the most reliable way to diagnose syringomyelia. An MRI takes detailed pictures of structures inside your body using a large magnet and a computer. Using this test, your provider will be able to determine if there’s a syrinx in your spine or another abnormality, such as a tumor. An MRI readily reveals the location, size and extent of the syrinx.
• Dynamic MRI: This type of MRI can show the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) around your spinal cord and within the syrinx. It may require a contrast agent, which is injected into one of your veins, to enhance the MRI images.
• Myelogram with CT scan: If you’re unable to undergo an MRI, a CT scan is the next choice. A myelogram is a diagnostic imaging test that uses a contrast dye and computed tomography (CT) to look for issues in your spinal canal.