Chiari Malformation - Symptoms and Causes

Overview

• Chiari malformation: A condition where brain tissue extends into the spinal canal due to a misshapen or smaller skull pressing on the brain.
• Prevalence: Not common, but diagnosis is increasing with more imaging tests.
• Types:
  • Type 1: Develops during growth of the skull and brain; symptoms appear later.
  • Type 2 & 3: Present at birth; more serious.
• Treatment: Monitoring, medication, surgery; depends on type and symptoms.

Symptoms

Common Types

• Type 1: Symptoms appear in late childhood/adulthood.
  • Classic symptom: Severe headaches after coughing, sneezing, or straining.
  • Other symptoms: neck pain, unsteady balance, poor coordination, numbness/tingling, dizziness, trouble swallowing, speech changes.
• Type 2: Greater tissue extension into spinal canal.
  • Related to myelomeningocele (form of spina bifida).
  • Symptoms: changes in breathing, trouble swallowing, quick eye movements, arm weakness.
• Type 3: Most severe; diagnosed at birth or in pregnancy.
  • Leads to brain and nervous system issues, higher mortality rate.

When to See a Doctor

• Consult a healthcare professional if any related symptoms appear.

Causes

• Type 1: Small or misshapen skull, pressures the cerebellum into spinal canal.
• Type 2: Often associated with myelomeningocele.
• Cerebrospinal fluid interference: Can cause fluid build-up or signal blockage, leading to symptoms.

Risk Factors

• Possible genetic component, but research is ongoing.

Complications

• Hydrocephalus: Fluid accumulation in the brain.
• Spina bifida: Incomplete development of spinal cord.
• Syringomyelia: Formation of syrinx (cavity) in spinal column, causing pain/weakness.
• Tethered cord syndrome: Spinal cord stretching, leads to nerve/muscle damage.

Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Offers comprehensive resources and treatments.

This summary provides a high-level overview of Chiari malformation, its types, symptoms, causes, risk factors, and potential complications for study purposes.