Abstract:
Chiari Malformation (Arnold-Chiari) - is a serious neurological disorder where the bottom part of the brain, the cerebellum, descends out of the skull and crowds the spinal cord, putting pressure on both the brain and spine causing many symptoms. Some people have large herniations with no symptoms; while others have small herniations with severe symptoms. The signature symptom is a severe headache in the back of the head brought on by straining, coughing, etc. Symptoms are due to compression of the brain and spinal tissue, disruption of the natural flow of cerebrospinal fluid, and increased pressure in the brain.