Chiari malformations (CMs) are structural defects in the base of the skull and the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance. When part of the cerebellum extends through the opening at the base of the skull, the cerebellum and brain stem can be pushed downward.
The resulting pressure on the cerebellum can block the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF, the liquid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord) and can cause a range of symptoms including dizziness, muscle weakness, numbness, headache, and problems with hearing, balance, and coordination.
Symptoms may change for some individuals depending on buildup of CSF and any resulting pressure on tissue and nerves.
CMs are classified by the severity of the disorder and the parts of the brain that protrude into the spinal canal. The most common is Type I, which may not cause symptoms and is often found by accident during an examination for another condition.
Type II (also called classic CM and Arnold-Chiari malformation) is usually accompanied by a myelomeningocele--a form of spina bifida that occurs when the spinal canal and backbone do not close before birth, causing the spinal cord to protrude through an opening in the back. This can cause partial or complete paralysis below the spinal opening.
Symptoms of Type III--the most serious form of CM--include those seen in Type II, in addition to additional severe neurological defects.
In CM Type IV, parts of the cerebellum are missing, and portions of the spinal cord may be visible.
Other conditions sometimes associated with CM include hydrocephalus, syringomyelia (a fluid-filled cyst in the spinal cord), and spinal curvature.
Medications may ease certain symptoms, such as pain, when present. In many cases, surgery is the only treatment available to improve or stabilize symptoms or halt the progression of damage to the central nervous system.
More than one surgery may be needed to treat the condition. Surgery may include a procedure to create more space for the cerebellum or removing part of the cerebellar tonsils that may reach through the skull opening (the cerebellar tonsils do not have a recognized function and can be removed without causing any known neurological problems).
Some CMs have no noticeable symptoms and do not interfere with the person's activities of daily living.
Many people with Type I CM do not show symptoms and do not know they have the condition. Symptoms may change for some individuals, depending on the compression of the tissue and nerves and on the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid pressure.
Many individuals with the more severe types of CM and have surgery see a reduction in their symptoms and/or prolonged periods of relative stability, although paralysis is generally permanent.
Current research funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke includes studies to better understand the genetic factors responsible for the malformation (such as in the P13K-AKT signaling pathway that cause brain overgrowth), and factors that influence the development, progression, and relief of symptoms among people with syringomyelia, including those with Chiari I malformations.
By studying individuals who either have syringomyelia or are at risk of developing it, researchers hope to gain information that may allow doctors to provide more accurate recommendations regarding surgical or non-surgical treatment.
