Tethered Spinal Cord Syndrome

Tethered spinal cord syndrome is a neurological disorder caused by tissue attachments that limit the movement of the spinal cord within the spinal column.  Attachments may occur congenitally at the base of the spinal cord (conus medullaris) or they may develop near the site of an injury to the spinal cord.  These attachments cause an abnormal stretching of the spinal cord.  The course of the disorder is progressive.  In children, symptoms may include lesions, hairy patches, dimples, or fatty tumors on the lower back; foot and spinal deformities; weakness in the legs; low back pain; scoliosis; and incontinence.  This type of tethered spinal cord syndrome appears to be the result of improper growth of the neural tube during fetal development, and is closely linked to spina bifida.  Tethered spinal cord syndrome may go undiagnosed until adulthood, when pain, sensory and motor problems, and loss of bowel and bladder control emerge.  This delayed presentation of symptoms is related to the degree of strain placed on the spinal cord over time and may be exacerbated during sports or pregnancy, or may be due to narrowing of the spinal column (stenosis) with age. Tethering may also develop after spinal cord injury and scar tissue can block the flow of fluids around the spinal cord.  Fluid pressure may cause cysts to form in the spinal cord, a condition called syringomyelia.  This can lead to additional loss of movement, feeling or the onset of pain or autonomic symptoms.

Treatment

MRI imaging is often used to evaluate individuals with these symptoms, and can be used to diagnose the location of the tethering, lower than normal position of the conus medullaris, or presence of a tumor or fatty mass (lipoma).  In children, early surgery is recommended to prevent further neurological deterioration. Regular follow-up is important: retethering may occur in some individuals during periods of rapid growth and may be seen between five to nine years of age.  If surgery is not advisable, spinal cord nerve roots may be cut to relieve pain.  In adults, surgery to free (detether) the spinal cord can reduce the size and further development of cysts in the cord and may restore some function or alleviate other symptoms.  Other treatment is symptomatic and supportive.

Prognosis

With treatment, individuals with tethered spinal cord syndrome have a normal life expectancy.  However, some neurological and motor impairments may not be fully correctable.  Surgery soon after symptoms emerge appears to improve chances for recovery and can prevent further functional decline.

Research

The NINDS conducts and supports research on disorders of the spinal cord.  The goals of this research are to find ways to prevent, treat, and cure these disorders.

Organizations

National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
Federation of voluntary health organizations dedicated to helping people with rare "orphan" diseases and assisting the organizations that serve them. Committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders through programs of education, advocacy, research, and service.

55 Kenosia Avenue
Danbury, CT 06810
orphan@rarediseases.org
http://www.rarediseases.org
Tel: Danbury
Fax: 203-798-2291

Spina Bifida Association
Non-profit association that provides information and referrals through a clearinghouse and toll-free number. Promotes research into the causes, treatment and prevention of Spina Bifida; conducts public awareness campaigns; and encourages socialization and training for people with Spina Bifida.

4590 MacArthur Blvd. NW
Suite 250
Washington, DC 20007-4266
sbaa@sbaa.org
http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org
Tel: Washington
Fax: 202-944-3295

American Syringomyelia & Chiari Alliance Project (ASAP)
Non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of people with syringomyelia, Chiari malformations, and related disorders. Publishes a newsletter and offers other written information, videotapes, an annual conference, and other services.

P.O. Box 1586
Longview, TX 75606-1586
info@asap.org
http://www.asap.org
Tel: Longview
Fax: 903-757-7456

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NINDS Disorders is an index of neurological conditions provided by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. This valuable tool offers detailed descriptions, facts on treatment and prognosis, and patient organization contact information for over 500 identified neurological disorders.

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