Chiari Malformation (Type I)  is a neurological disorder where part of the brain, the cerebellum (or more specifically the cerebellar tonsils), descends out of the skull into the spinal area.  This results in compression of parts of the brain and spinal cord, and disrupts the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (a clear fluid which bathes the brain and spinal cord). 

Chiari I Malformations are usually congenital and only rarely appear in small children.  Typically, symptoms of the Chiari begin in late teens to early twenties (and it often takes years to diagnose). Because Chiari involves the nervous system, symptoms can be numerous and varied.  In fact, one large study showed that the vast majority of Chiari patients reported 5 or more symptoms.  Symptoms can include: headaches, dizziness, weakness and tingling of extremities, severe sleep apnea, choking, and trouble swallowing.

Over time, a syrinx (pocket of fluid on the spinal cord) can form and cause additional, more severe, and potentially permanent symptoms.  Decompression surgery is the current treatment for Chiari.  These surgeries can be done in one of several ways and can often relieve or stop the progression of symptoms.

For more information on Chiari Malformation, visit www.conquerpediatricchiari.org