Central cord syndrome
- Article
- 2021-03-05
Central cord syndrome is the most common form of incomplete spinal cord injury characterized by deterioration of the arms and hands and, to a lesser extent, the legs. The brain's ability to send and receive signals to and from parts of the body below the site of injury is reduced, but not completely blocked. This syndrome is associated with damage to the large nerve fibers that carry information directly from the cerebral cortex to the spinal cord. These nerves are especially important for hand and arm function. Symptoms may include paralysis or loss of fine control over movements in the arms and hands, with relatively less disruption to leg movements. Sensory loss below the injury site and loss of bladder control may also occur, along with painful sensations such as tingling, burning, or dull pain. The total amount and type of loss of function depends on the severity of nerve damage. Central cord syndrome usually results from trauma that causes damage to the vertebrae in the neck or hernia of the vertebral discs. It can also develop in people over 50 as a result of the gradual weakening of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, which narrows the spine and can contribute to spinal cord compression when the neck is hyper-stretched.
Therapy
There is no cure for central umbilical cord syndrome, although some people restore near-normal function. There is no standard treatment, although drug therapy, surgery, and rest are often part of the program. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to indicate the degree of spinal cord compression and vertebral instability. Spinal instability due to acute traumatic injury or cervical hernia is often treated surgically to prevent further damage to the spinal cord. Recent reports indicate that previous surgery can increase the chances of recovery. Numerous recent studies suggest that surgery may also be beneficial in individuals with persistent spinal cord compression and persistent neurological deterioration.
Prognosis
The prognosis for central umbilical cord syndrome varies, but most people whose syndrome is caused by trauma have some restoration of neurological function. Evaluation of abnormal signals on MRI images can help predict the likelihood that neurological recovery may occur naturally. Those who undergo medical intervention soon after their injury often have good results. Many people with the condition recover substantial function after their initial injury, and the ability to walk is restored in most cases, although some limitation may remain. Improvement occurs first in the legs, then in the bladder, and can also be seen in the arms. Hand function recovers last, if at all. Recovery is generally better in younger patients than in patients over 50 years of age.
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