Chiari Malformation: Type1, Tonsils and Syrinx

The Chiari malformations are a group of disorders characterized, at least in part, by herniation of hindbrain structures through the foramen magnum at the base of the skull. They are categorized as type 1, type 2, and type 3 depending on clinical and radiographic findings.

This article will focus on type 1 Chiari malformations. The definition of this malformation has been debated, but most agree that the combination of herniated cerebellar tonsils (usually defined as greater than 5mm below the foramen magnum), with or without a syrinx, in the setting of referable symptoms is sufficient to make the diagnosis.

So why do the cerebellar tonsils herniate? Nobody knows for sure! We do know that type 1 malformations can be congenital or acquired. One theory is that tonsillar herniation is a result of an abnormally small posterior fossa (ie: the bones that compose the base of the skull). A small posterior fossa may be caused by under-development of the occipital somites in-utero (the fetal precursors that form bone and connective tissues), premature fusion of the cranial bones (ie: craniosynostosis), or medical conditions that promote abnormal bony growth.

Other experts advocate that abnormal cerebrospinal fluid pressures between the brain and spine may cause the tonsils to herniate downwards.

Regardless of how you slice it, we can say with certainty that there are multiple potential etiologies for type 1 Chiari malformations.

Type 1 Chiari malformations are commonly associated with a finding known as a “syrinx”. A syrinx is an abnormal fluid filled cavity that is seen in the cervical and/or thoracic spinal cord. It may represent an enlargement and extension of the central canal of the cord, in which case it is termed hydromyelia; it may also represent a complex glial lined cavity, which is referred to as syringomyelia. Regardless, syrinxes are found in 30% to 70% of type 1 Chiari malformations.

For unclear reasons, type 1 Chiari malformations with a syrinx are associated with scoliotic curves of the spine (especially left sided curves). It is believed that the syrinx puts pressure on the motor pathways of the spinal cord. This results in weakness of the paraspinal muscles causing the vertebral column to curve.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common presenting symptom of a type 1 Chiari malformation is pain. The pain is usually located at the back of the head and upper neck. Additionally, a cape-like sensation loss, as well as problems with vision and/or hearing may also be present.

Myelopathic signs or symptoms may be present if there is a syrinx. Myelopathic patients present with a combination of gait dysfunction, hand clumsiness, weakness, abnormally brisk reflexes, spasticity, and Lhermitte’s sign.

Diagnosis

Type 1 Chiari Malformation
Diagnosis of a type 1 Chiari malformation is made when an MRI shows abnormal herniation of the cerebellar tonsils, with or without an associated syrinx, in the context of appropriate signs and/or symptoms.

Treatment

The treatment of Chiari malformation is with surgical decompression. Most commonly this involves "shaving" off part of the occipital bone and removing the C1 lamina. This effectively decompresses the spinal cord and cerebellar tonsils.

If an associated syrinx is present, many neurosurgeons will open the dura (ie: the lining of the spinal cord) and perform a "duraplasty"; during the duraplasty a patch is sewn into place to give the spinal cord and cerebellar tonsils more room. Duraplasty generally improves the size and severity of the syrinx over time, but adds risk and complications to the procedure.

Some neurosurgeons will surgically shrink the cerebellar tonsils after opening the dura. This is done with bipolar electrocautery and serves to further decompress the area.

Overview

Type 1 Chiari malformations are hindbrain abnormalities characterized by herniation of the cerebellar tonsils below the foramen magnum. They are associated with cervicothoracic syrinxes as well as neuromuscular scoliosis. Symptoms can range from pain to neurological deficits. Treatment is with surgical decompression, although the exact type of decompression has been the subject of intense research.

References and Resources