Syringomyelia is the development of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within the spinal cord parenchyma.
Classic Presentation
Cape-like distribution of sensory loss
In a cervical syringomyelia, a fluid-filled cavity (a syrinx) expands outward and encroaches upon the anterolateral system, which affects the inner (arm) fibers prior to the outer (leg) fibers as well as affecting the crossing fibers at that level.