Syringomyelia (spinal cord cyst)

Because the rating is based on residual symptoms, medical records and examination findings that document those specific impairments are the most useful evidence. Neuropsychological test results showing objective impairment in memory, attention, concentration, or executive functions help support ratings tied to those areas. Records of orientation problems, apraxia, or visual-spatial difficulties noted during clinical exams are directly relevant. For communication or neurobehavioral effects, notes from treating providers, mental health records, or speech-language evaluations can reflect those findings. Statements from you or people who know you describing how symptoms affect work, daily tasks, and relationships are relevant to the functional impairment criteria — for example, how often you get lost, struggle to make decisions, or have difficulty interacting with others. MRI or imaging records confirming the cyst and any cord involvement help establish the underlying diagnosis.