The 4 Types of Chiari Malformation

Published on 13 January 2025 at 22:08

Chiari 1 and 1.5

Chiari 1 is the most common type of the condition, it is where the lowest part of the brain extends into the spinal canal. People with type 1 often have no symptoms and don't need treatment. But on the other hand, there's Chiari 1.5. This is a more severe case of Chiari 1 where there is cerebellar tonsillar herniation and caudal herniation of some portion of the brainstem, so this type is lower in the neck and can produce spinal cysts also known as a syrinx. This type is the most common to be found later in life. 
 

Chiari 2

Chiari 2 can be associated with Spina Bifida which is where the spinal canal and backbone don't close properly. This type is a structural defect where the brain stem and cerebellum are extend into the upper spinal canal through the base of the skull. This type is typically found at birth. 

Chiari 3 

Chiari 3 is when a portion of the cerebellum and/or brainstem peaks through an opening in the back of the skull, often times forming a sac on the neck, causing significant neurological issues and considered life-threatening due to its potential for severe complications. This type is very rare and often diagnosed at birth or during pregnancy through the ultrasound scan.

Chiari 4

Chiari 4 is also a very rare type of the condition when the cerebellum is underdeveloped or missing. When this part of the brain is missing, it leads to fatality during infancy. 

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