Arnold-chiari malformation
What is Arnold-Chiari malformation?
The Arnold-Chiari malformation, specifically type I, is the most frequent. It occurs between two important areas of our body: the occipital region of the skull, and the first and second vertebrae. Often, in addition, the patient has other associated malformations such as a deviation of the spine (scoliosis).
For this reason, it is very important for the spine specialist to have training in both the skull and the spine, in order to be able to address the problem as a whole.
At BSI, we are neurosurgeons and spine specialists, so we can offer a complete approach to this pathology.
Why does the Arnold-Chiari malformation occur?
Chiari malformation is a malformation that occurs in the growth process of the skull. What happens is that after birth, the occipital region of the skull does not grow enough for the cerebellum – the part of the brain that is contained in this area – to have the space it needs. For this reason, one part – the cerebellar tonsils – is displaced towards the area right next to it: the foramen magnum, which is the hole that allows the passage of the medulla from its origin in the brain to the spinal canal. This is the condition that causes a space problem in this foramen magnum, since the medulla and the cerebellum are forced to coexist. This is where the symptoms begin.
What are the symptoms?
The disease is usually diagnosed in adulthood, although it may have started much earlier. This is because the symptoms begin when there is a lack of space for the cerebellum and medulla. Although males can suffer from this problem, it is more common in females.
The symptoms are generic, so it sometimes takes a long time before it can be diagnosed. The most frequent are oppressive pains in the back of the head, and also behind the eyes. With time they intensify and become more frequent, without easy relief with the usual medication. Sometimes they are also accompanied by ramps in the extremities, tingling in the soles of the feet; ringing or dullness in the ears (as if they were filled with fluid).
What is the treatment for Arnold-Chriari malformation?
The treatment of Chiari malformation depends on its severity and symptoms. If the disease has already been diagnosed without symptoms or if these are very mild , it is usually sufficient to carry out controls to monitor its progress. When the disease has already progressed significantly and is accompanied by symptoms that limit the patient’s daily life, the need for surgical treatment is often considered. The main purpose of surgery is to stop progression and the appearance of new symptoms. Most patients then see relief from the daily headache as well as other limiting symptoms.
When patients have a spinal deviation (scoliosis), Chiari malformation is diagnosed at an earlier age.
Per això és tan important que es pugui fer una avaluació global. Un equip mèdic multidisciplinari té la capacitat d’oferir una resposta integral des de diferents angles terapèutics.