Arnold Chiari malformation (ACM) is a relatively rare brain disorder that affects the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination. It is estimated to occur in about 1 in 1,000 people. ACM can cause a variety of symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing, headaches, weakness in the arms and legs, and changes in facial features. Treatment for ACM usually involves surgery to correct the abnormalities in the brain.
Signs and Symptoms
The most common symptom of Arnold Chiari is headache, which is usually worse when lying down and may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Other symptoms may include balance problems, dizziness, double vision, difficulty swallowing, facial numbness or weakness, and changes in facial features.
Causes
The cause of Arnold Chiari is not known, but it is thought to be related to the way the brain develops before birth. It is believed that the brain may become too large for the area it is developing in, causing some of the brain tissue to be pushed down into the spinal canal. This can lead to the formation of a herniation, or a bulging of the cerebellum into the spinal canal.
Diagnosis
Arnold Chiari is typically diagnosed using a combination of imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans. The scans will show the abnormality in the brain and can also help to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment for Arnold Chiari typically involves surgery to correct the abnormality in the brain. The surgery usually involves removing the part of the cerebellum that is herniated and replacing it with a section of bone from the skull. In some cases, a shunt may be placed to reduce pressure in the brain.
Outlook
The outlook for people with Arnold Chiari is generally good. Most people who undergo surgery will have a reduction in symptoms and an improved quality of life. However, it is important to note that the symptoms of ACM can vary from person to person, and the outcome of treatment may not be the same for everyone.