What is Hydromyelia?

Hydromyelia is a neurological condition characterized by a buildup of fluid inside the central canal of the spinal cord. This puts pressure on the nerves in the spinal cord and leads to neurological symptoms such as weakness in the extremities, difficulty walking, and disordered speech. Patients with this condition need to be evaluated by a neurologist who can pinpoint the area of damage and provide patients with treatment recommendations. Most commonly, hydromyelia is seen in infants and young children.

Hydrocephalus is often linked with hydromyelia, as are some other congenital variations involving the brain. In patients with this condition, the central canal of the spinal cord widens and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulates inside. This condition is often confused with syringomyelia, which also involves an accumulation of CSF, but on the outside of the central canal, rather than on the inside. Syringomyelia is also usually found in a closed cavity, unlike hydromyelia, which is connected to the fourth ventricle of the brain. The effects of both conditions are similar, however, and often the treatment approaches are comparable as well.

Patients with hydromyelia can develop a variety of symptoms, depending on which nerves are involved. Loss of bladder control, spasticity or paralysis in the limbs, balance problems, numbness, and tingling sensations can all occur. These changes may occur over time or more rapidly. This condition requires medical imaging studies for a diagnosis.

When the spine of a patient with hydromyelia is imaged, the pocket of CSF buildup can be seen in the image. Depending on the location and size of the buildup, a neurologist may recommend several options. One is a wait and see approach, as sometimes this condition resolves on its own. Surgery may also be offered, with a number of different surgical techniques available to manage the condition. A doctor may feel that a patient is not a good candidate for surgery, and suggest analgesia and supportive care to help the patient manage the symptoms.

Parents may find that it is beneficial to discuss the situation with several neurologists if they have a child diagnosed with hydromyelia. Different doctors have different approaches to treatment and may have varying levels of experience, and talking directly to a neurosurgeon can also help people get better informed about surgical treatment options which may be available. Most doctors respect the desire for a second opinion and may even offer a referral to another physician for a patient who is interested in working with another doctor.