What chiari malformation is?

Answer 1

Chiari malformations refer to a series of conditions in which the cerebellum and brain stem have fallen into the spinal canal due to a small or misshapen skull

• Type 1 a small portion of the cerebellum has extended into the spinal canal, usually develops as the skull and brain are growing
• Type 2 both the cerebellum and brain stem have extended into the spinal canal, this form is present at birth and usually associated with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.
• Type 3 is rare and severe, both the cerebellum and brain stem have extended all the way to the spinal cord, this type has a high mortality rate
• Type 4 involves an incomplete or underdeveloped cerebellum, usually associated with anencephaly, this type has a high mortality rate

One defines Arnold Chiari as a malformation of the brain. It has a downward displacement of the opening of the base of the skull which means it can cause communication problems. Problems include headaches, fatigue, muscle weakness in the face, nausea and difficulty in swallowing. Severe cases include impaired vision and paralysis.

Answer 2

Chiari malformation is a (usually) congenital condition that results in herniation of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum (hole in the bottom of your skull in which the spinal cord enters/exits). There are several types of Chiari malformation, and treatment is based on the type of malformation present.