Stephen J. Schueler, M.D.

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Arnold-Chiari Malformation Overview

Another name for Arnold-Chiari Malformation is Chiari Malformation.

What is Chiari malformation?
Chiari malformation is a structural defect in a part of the skull that houses the cerebellum. The cerebellum is the part of the brain that controls movement. If the lower, rear portion of the skull is under-sized, then the pressure on the cerebellum can interfere with normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid. The blockage of CSF flow can cause a variety of symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Chiari malformation?
Symptoms of Chiari malformation include dizziness, muscle weakness, numbness, changes in vision, chronic headaches, and problems with balance and coordination.

How does the doctor treat Chiari malformation?
Treatment of Chiari malformation includes medications to control symptoms and surgery.

Continue to Arnold-Chiari Malformation Symptoms

Last Updated: Feb 7, 2010 References

PubMed Arnold-Chiari Malformation References
  1. Hentschel SJ, Yen KG, Lang FF. Chiari I malformation and acute acquired comitant esotropia: case report and review of the literature. J Neurosurg. 2005 May;102(4 Suppl):407-12. [15926393]
  2. Marshman LA, Benjamin JC, Chawda SJ, David KM. Acute obstructive hydrocephalus associated with infratentorial subdural hygromas complicating Chiari malformation Type I decompression. Report of two cases and literature review. J Neurosurg. 2005 Oct;103(4):752-5. [16266060]
  3. Snyder P. Chiari malformation and syringomyelia. Radiol Technol. 2008 Jul-Aug;79(6):555-8. [18650532]