Question
Recently had a MRI done and I would like to know if you could explain this to
me in plain english. My symptoms are left neck pain, left shoulder pain and
numbness and tingling on the top left side of my head. The MRI reads:



-C5-6 disc level: Small disc/spur complex and minor spinal canal narrowing

-Minor degenerative changes of the mid cervical levels are noted without cord
compromise.

-Probable retention or Tornwaldt cyst in the adenoid region. Clinical
correlation is suggested to assess need for further evaluation. Other
etiologies would be much less likely in this age group.



Thanks  

Answer
It is easier to explain in person, and the doctor that ordered the MRI or the Radiologist that did it should have explained this to you.  C5-6 area findings mean that there is probably a bony growth on the disc that is causing the spinal cord to be narrowed.  The degenerative changes are normal, they come with age and activity.  I am unsure what the Tornwaldt cyst is, but if the radiologist suggests further evaluation, I would do so.  Good Luck!!

Dr. Starbuck