A curvature of the spinal columnThe individual bones that we call vertebrae, when joined together by several ligaments, make of the spinal, or vertebral column., which commonly develops during adolescence. Many cases are idiopathicLiterally translated this means a disease that has caused itself, i.e. there is no underlying cause that can be identified. Many experts argue that there is no such thing as idiopathic syringomyelia and we have simply failed to identify the underlying cause. Perhaps the term “cryptopathic” would be better – “crypto” being a Greek word, denoting “hidden”. but some may be caused by, or at least are associated with syringomyeliaA cavity, within the spinal cord, which is filled with cerebrospinal fluid. Syringomyelia cavities come in various “shapes and sizes”, from short, spindle-shaped cavities through to long, tense cavities extending throughout the greater part of the spinal cord. Read more. It is currently unclear as to whether Chiari malformations alone can cause scoliosis to develop.