Syrinx, Thoracic Cord

Unknown Spine Case 12

Presentation

47 y/o female with history of back trauma.

• FSE T1-weighted Sagittal Image
• FSE T2-weighted Axial Image

Image Findings

A low signal area is seen in the center of the cord on the T1-weighed images corresponding to a high signal area on the T2-weighted axial image.

Discussion

A syrinx, or syringohydromyelia, is a fluid filled cavity in the spinal cord. Hydromyelia is given when the cavity is from dilation of the central canal; syringomyelia when the cavity is outside the central canal. Syrinx is associated with Arnold Chiari I malformations, tumor, trauma, ischemia and infection. A Gibbs artifact may occationally imitate a syrinx.