Chiari Malformations

A Chiari malformation is a congenital abnormality of the brain. During development of the fetus the lower part of the cerebellum protrudes from the back of the head into the cervical portion of the spinal canal.  Hydrocephalus, an increase of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, follows and is usually accompanied by spina bifida and meningomyelocele, technically defined as a hernia of the spinal cord.

Symptoms of a Chiari malformation usually include vomiting, muscle weakness in the head and face, difficulty swallowing, and varying degrees of mental impairment. Paralysis of the arms and legs may occur. Adults and adolescents with Chiari malformation who previously showed no symptoms may show signs of progressive impairment, such as involuntary, rapid, downward eye movements.  Other symptoms may include dizziness, headache, double vision, deafness, an impaired ability to coordinate movement and episodes of acute pain in and around eyes.

Surgical treatments area available for many types of Chiari malformation.