Chiari malformation is also known as cerebellar tonsillar hernia malformation. It is a congenital malformation of the back brain. The root cause is congenital under-development of the back skull. The onset of the disease is slow and it affects more women than men. Mild cerebellar tonsillar herniation can have no symptom. Trauma, infection, cough, and lumbar puncture can induce symptoms or aggravate the existing symptoms. Patients may have headache, arm muscle, facial muscle weakness, and reduced sensation of pain and temperature on shoulder or arm. Patients can also have difficulty swallowing, dizziness, nausea, ataxia (poor coordination), and even paralysis. Surgery is the only treatment option. If the condition is very severe, cerebellar tonsils may be removed. If there is hydrocephalus, the fluid can be drained.
How is Chiari malformation treated in practice?