Chiari malformation
CausesofChiari I malformations
The exact cause of Chiari I malformations is unknown. It tends to be present from birth, but is normally only found in adulthood when symptoms develop or when an MRI scan is done.
Many cases are thought to be the result of part of the skull not being large enough for the brain.
Chiari I malformations can also develop in people with a tethered spinal cord, a build-up of fluid on the brain(hydrocephalus), and some types of brain tumour.
Chiari malformations can sometimes run in families. It's possible that some children born with it may have inherited a faulty gene that caused problems with their skull development.
Butthe risk of passing a Chiari malformation on to your child is very small. And remember: even if your children do inherit it,they may notexperience symptoms.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out what a Chiari malformation is, what problems it may cause, why it happens and how it can be treated.
AreChiari I malformations serious?
The severity of Chiari malformations can vary from person to person, but generally: Chiari I malformations aren't considered life-threatening some people experience painful headaches, movement proble
Symptomsof Chiari I malformations
Many people with a Chiari I malformation will not have any symptoms. Sometimes they'reonly foundafter an (MRI) scanof the brainis carried out for another reason.If symptoms do develop, theycan include
TreatmentsforChiari I malformations
Treatment for Chiari I malformation depends on whether you have any symptoms and how severe they are. You might not need any treatment if you don't have any symptoms.Painkillers can help relieve any h
CausesofChiari I malformations
The exact cause of Chiari I malformations is unknown. It tends to be present from birth, but is normally only found in adulthood when symptoms develop or when an MRI scan is done. Many cases are thoug
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