| Syringobulbia | |
|---|---|
| Specialty | Neurology |
| Symptoms | Pain, loss of temperature sensation, breathing problems |
| Causes | Unknown, may be widening of central canal of spinal cord |
| Diagnostic method | Symptoms, magnetic resonance imaging |
| Medication | Tricyclic antidepressants for pain |
Syringobulbia is a medical condition in which syrinxes, or fluid-filled cavities, affect the brainstem (usually the lower brainstem). The exact cause is often unknown, but may be linked to a widening of the central canal of the spinal cord. This may affect one or more cranial nerves, resulting in various kinds of facial palsies. Sensory and motor nerve pathways may be affected by interruption or compression of nerves. This disorder is associated with syringomyelia, a syrinx limited to the spinal cord. It can be diagnosed using magnetic resonance imaging. Symptoms may be treated with tricyclic antidepressants.