MRI shows 2 very small seperate syrinx(s)

[appleised]

Im a 33 year old male. I was involved in a major auto accident back in 1997, for which i had surgery. An odontoid screw fixation for a type 2 odontoid peg fracture. It was successful without any loss of motor or sensory function.

I started loosing right shoulder strength about 3 years ago (2010). About a year ago started experiencing weakness in my left palm and fingers. 2 months ago noticed muscle loss (atrophy) in my left palm. I had a MRI scan done on Neurologists instructions and it came up with strange findings that my neurologist couldn't really make sense of (In South Africa).

I have TWO seperate syrinx(s) in my spinal cord. Both very small and narrow. Ive been told ONE syrinx is a common occurrence but 2 separate is something that doctors are not sure of and cant really explain.

Has anyone heard or experienced such a problem before? Any advice on what to do? As my current doctors want me to take the wait and watch approach.

[appleised]

Thanks , this may sound a little narcissistic without intent but its comforting to know that its not uncommon. The piece that doesn't fit the puzzle is that the accident happened 16 years ago yet the symptoms are presenting themselves now hence the 'little' confusion with the doctors. Also the fact that the syrinx wasn't present before.

I have sent out my MRI off to the UK to the Doctor that operated on me all those years ago, fingers crossed he comes up with a better explanation.

Once again thanks for the reply :)

[selmaS]

  Hi a syrinx is due to an injury in the area ur back may have been hit in 2 places that u have 2 syrinx's///being that u were in an accident I would have to assume that is y u have 2....

Many with Chiari Malformation have had more then one syrinx as well....I understand u r in South Africa and may be limited as to Drs u can see, but mayb u can get them to do a consult with a Dr in a different country that has more experience so they know how to proceed????

I am not a medical professional, but have known many with this condition and know it is not uncommon to have more then one syrinx.....