Degenerative Disc/ Genetics?

[Karen]

Dear Doctors:

I hope you will be able to give me some information regarding
my condition.
I am 47 yrs old and have undergone 3 cervical spine surgeries:
96- Ant Fusion C5-6
98- Ant. Fusion C6-7
99- Decompression Laminectomies C4-C6 plates and screws.
    (severe spinal stenosis compressing cord to 5mm)
After each surgery, there was little improvement and I am still
experiencing symptoms of Numbness, pain, weakness bilateral
arms and legs.
I recently had a CT Myelogram which showed. New bone spur growth
at C3-4 causing spinal stenosis, spinal stenosis remains at
C5-6. Severe Myelomalacia C4-C7.
My neurologist has indicated further surgery is not an option and
stated that research has been done and a genetic marker found
for degenerative disc disease.  Allele COL9A2.  It has something
to do with erradic bone growth (spurs etc).  Have you heard of
this, and is there research being done in the US?
Also, he stated myelomalacia does not progress on its own, yet
I find increasing weakness, with everything I do.
Any insight would be greatly appreciated
Thank You
Karen

[CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS]

Dear Karen:

There is really no treatment as the process is from the insult to the spinal cord. By the time it is noted, the process is usually finished.

Sincerely,

CCF Neuro MD

[Karen]

Thank you for your response.  In regards to the change in degree
of myelomalacia, is there any treatment medically to stop or
retard this process?
Tnanks again

[CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS]

Dear Karen:

I am not aware of a specific allele associated with degenerative disc disease (unrelated to other systemic diseases known to be associated with disc degeneration, i.e. osteoarthritis).  Myelomalacia is a term used for destruction of the spinal cord.  As a term for a group of entities that lead to a destructive process, it does not progress.  However, the degree of myelomalacia does change and can involve wider areas of the spinal cord.  I am sorry to hear about all your surgeries.  If I hear about the genetic connection, I will answer you again.  

Sincerely,

CCF Neuro MD