Syringomyelia diagnosed 20 years later

Male, eastpointe - MI, member since Sep 2008
I am a 48 y/o male Veteran that had a MVA in 1986 and had  sever cluster and migrine headaches and some back pain and numbness intermitant, but never had MRI until symptoms increased after a second accident in 2000 in which the sensory deficies started in 2005 i had my first MRI and I was diagnosed with syringomyelia. I truly believe I developed this injury 1986. But I am Having a hard time convincing people because of the slow progression. Is thier cases studies i can use as proof or to show the asymtomatic to symtomatic progression of post traumatic syringomyelia.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

Syringomyelia is a disorder in which a cyst forms within the spinal cord. Posttraumatic syringomyelia is becoming increasingly recognized as a sequel to major and minor spinal cord injury with the help of MRI  as a diagnostic modality for evaluating possible spinal pathologic lesions. Delayed, subacute, or progressive neurologic deterioration in victims of traumatic spinal injury should raise the suspicion of posttraumatic syringomyelia. It may also present as sensory or motor complaints occurring on a delayed basis after minor spinal trauma causing no initial neurologic impairment.

Pain is the most commonly reported symptom. Pain may be localized or diffuse and commonly is reported as a dull ache or a burning or stabbing sensation. Other symptoms include increased weakness, numbness, increased spasticity, and increased sweating. These are often aggravated by postural change. Some people with syringomyelia suffer from chronic pain and headaches. Early detection is very important. Further loss of function can be very harmful to the patient.

The main treatment has been surgery which is not always successful. New cavities may form in the spinal cord, the drainage tube may plug up, and other complications may develop. This link presents a journal with post traumatic syringomyelia:
http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1026203

Take care and regards.