Chiari Malformation

What it is

Chiari (Key-AR-ee) malformation, also known as CM, is frequently caused by an abnormality at the base of the skull. This compresses the rear portion of the brain into an insufficient area, and at times forces it to distend below the skull structure. The normal flow of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) is impeded, causing an imbalance in pressure.

Symptoms

Symptoms of CM include severe headaches (the Chiari headache), vision and balance problems, and other neurological symptoms. CM is the leading cause of syringomyelia.

Treatment

The treatment most often indicated is surgery to enlarge the opening at the base of the skull, creating a spacious pathway through which CSF can resume its normal flow. Surgery often does not produce a favorable outcome.