A Chiari malformation (CM) is a growth abnormality in the skull. The abnormality occurs when part of your brain moves into your spinal canal. The abnormality will cause your brain to press against the base of the skull. The pressure blocks the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which should circulate nutrients and chemicals while removing waste products.
About 1 in every 1,000 people in the United States may experience a Chiari malformation. The exact number and how common the condition is remain unclear. Some individuals don’t exhibit any symptoms. Others only show symptoms well into adolescence or adulthood.
There are five types of Chiari malformation:
Speaking with your healthcare provider is an effective way of connecting with a specialist who can identify and diagnose any sign of a Chiari malformation.
If you have Chiari malformation, some of the symptoms may include:
Symptoms differ for each individual, ranging from no symptoms to mild to severe ones. The common symptoms of a Chiari malformation may improve or worsen.
Make sure to keep track of any symptoms as you experience them. Making an appointment with your doctor and having a record of when your symptoms began, and whether they have become more severe, will help you to receive the best possible medical care.
A Chiari malformation occurs when your brain pushes through your spinal canal where the brain and spinal cord meet. Most malformations are present at birth (congenital) and are results of the genetic change that you either:
There are rarer instances when a Chiari malformation develops despite someone not being born with the condition. The skull or spinal cord could change shape from:
Experts have also linked Chiari malformation to other health conditions, including:
Serious complications are possible if Chiari malformation is left undiagnosed and untreated, but not everyone has severe symptoms or requires treatment. Speaking with your doctor is the best way to minimize the likelihood of experiencing major complications.
During a complete physical exam, a doctor will test an individual’s:
A doctor will also look to identify any learning challenges or developmental delays in children. Confirming a diagnosis will involve ordering imaging tests to review a more detailed picture of the brain and spinal cord. Possible imaging tests are:
A Chiari malformation may also appear on prenatal ultrasounds. Make sure to keep up with all of your pregnancy’s ultrasound appointments.
How your doctor treats you or a loved one with a Chiari malformation depends on a number of factors. The main factor is the severity of the symptoms. Individuals who don’t experience any symptoms will not receive any treatment. Your healthcare provider can monitor your health by running regular MRIs.
Treatment options for mild symptoms (headache or neck pain) include:
Severe cases of a Chiari malformation may require surgical procedures. These are:
Any type of treatment can come with associated side effects. Speak with your doctor before you choose next steps so that you can make a fully-informed decision regarding your healthcare. It’s also important to note that repeat surgeries might be necessary over time and as you age.
There is currently no known way to prevent the development of any Chiari malformation. Speak with your healthcare provider if you plan on becoming pregnant about the best ways to maintain good health. A provider may recommend:
Monitoring your symptoms and finding the right treatment plan can greatly influence the outlook for someone with any type of Chiari malformation. The severity and type of Chiari malformation can affect your life expectancy, but people with mild symptoms or none should not see a major change to their life expectancy. Speak with your healthcare provider after receiving a diagnosis about what you can anticipate.