CM/SM – the fundamentals   What is syringomyelia (pronounced
SIR-RIN-GO-MY-EE- LIA)? Syringomyelia (SM) is a disease of the
spinal cord characterised by fluid filled cavities (syrinxes)
within the spinal cord substance.  MRI of the brain and neck
from 3 year old female Cavalier with syringomyelia (asterisks)
and Chiari-like malformation (CM).  Comparison between the back
of the brain in a Staffordshire bull terrier (top) and a
Cavalier (bottom). The MRI images on the left are transverse
“slices” though the foramen magnum. In the Staffordshire bull
terrier an unobstructed space around the spinal cord can be
appreciated (white ring with asterixis). This is absent in the
Cavalier. The MRI images on the right show the normal cerebellum
anatomy in the Staffordshire bull terrier and a cerebellar
herniation (arrow) in the Cavalier  Why is syringomyelia called
syringomyelia? Syrinx implies hollow tube or reed. Myelia or
myelo refers to marrow - the old medical term used to describe
the spinal cord. Therefore syringom