Chiari Malformation: What is it?
Is there any treatment for chiari malformation?
What is the prognosis?
What research is being done on chiari malformation?
Chiari malformation: related organizations
Arnold-Chiari Malformation is a condition in which the cerebellum portion of the brain protrudes into the spinal canal. It may or may not be apparent at birth. Arnold-Chiari I type malformation usually causes symptoms in young adults and is often associated with syringomyelia, in which a tubular cavity develops within the spinal cord. Arnold-Chiari II type malformation is associated with myelomeningocele (a defect of the spine) and hydrocephalus (increased cerebrospinal fluid and pressure within the brain), which usually are apparent at birth. Myelomeningocele usually causes paralysis of the legs and, less commonly, the arms. If left untreated, hydrocephalus can cause mental impairment. Either type of Arnold-Chiari Malformation can cause symptoms of headache, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness.
Adults and adolescents who are unaware they have Arnold-Chiari I type malformation may develop headache that is predominantly located in the back of the head and is increased by coughing or straining. Symptoms of progressive brain impairment may include dizziness, an impaired ability to coordinate movement, double vision, and involuntary, rapid, downward eye movements.
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Infants and children with myelomeningocele may require chiari malformation surgery to repair protrusion of the meningeal sac into the spinal cord. Hydrocephalus may be treated with surgical implantation of a shunt through surgery to relieve increased pressure on the brain. Some adults may benefit from Arnold-Chiari Malformation surgery in which the existing opening in the back of the skull is enlarged.
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Infants with very severe chiari malformation may have life-threatening complications. Most patients who have chiari malformation surgery experience a reduction in their symptoms. Some patients may experience prolonged periods of relative stability following their surgery.
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Research supported by the NINDS includes studies to understand how the brain and nervous system normally develop and function and how they are affected by disease and trauma. These studies contribute to a greater understanding of congenital birth defects, such as Arnold-Chiari Malformation, and open promising new doors to potential treatments.
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March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation
1275 Mamaroneck Avenue
White Plains, NY 10605
askus@marchofdimes.com
http://www.marchofdimes.com/
Tel: 914-428-7100 888-MODIMES (663-4637)
Fax: 914-428-8203
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
P.O. Box 1968
(55 Kenosia Avenue)
Danbury, CT 06813-1968
orphan@rarediseases.org
http://www.rarediseases.org/
Tel: 203-744-0100 Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673)
Fax: 203-798-2291
Spina Bifida Association of America
4590 MacArthur Blvd. NW Suite 250
Washington, DC 20007-4266
sbaa@sbaa.org
http://www.sbaa.org/
Tel: 202-944-3285 800-621-3141
Fax: 202-944-3295
Source: National Institutes of Health; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
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