Syrinx associated with cervical spondylosis: A report of 13 cases

Sustained compression of the spinal cord by cervical spondylosis may induce arachnoid fibrotic changes and trigger local syrinx formation.

Here, we describe 13 cases of syrinx formation in association with cervical spondylosis. In 12 out of 13 patients, the syrinx was incidental finding while screening for simple neck pain. In one case, it was discovered during an evaluation of upper extremity radiculopathy. Over the 3-8-year follow-up period, the syrinx size did not change in 11 cases (i.e., 10 asymptomatic and one with radiculopathy) even after surgical decompression. In the other two cases, the syrinx spontaneously resolved.

With the increased utilization of cervical MR imaging, more cases of incidental asymptomatic syrinx formation versus symptomatic lesions contributing to radiculopathy have been discovered.