Chiari malformation

Información en español Title

How can we make GARD better? We want to hear from you.
Provide Feedback

Not a rare disease

Other Names:

Arnold-Chiari malformations; Arnold Chiari malformation

Categories:

Nervous System Diseases

Subtypes:

Chiari malformation type 1; Chiari malformation type 2; Chiari malformation type 3; Chiari malformation type 1; Chiari malformation type 2; Chiari malformation type 3; Chiari malformation type 4 See More

Summary Summary

Chiari malformations are structural defects in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance. When the indented bony space at the lower rear of the skull is smaller than normal, the cerebellum and brainstem can be pushed downward. The resulting pressure on the cerebellum can block the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (the liquid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord) and can cause a range of symptoms including dizziness, muscle weakness, numbness, vision problems, headache, and problems with balance and coordination.^[1] The exact cause is still unknown. In some cases of Chiari Malformation type 1, genetic factors may be involved.^[2] Treatment may require surgery.^[1]

There are four types of Chiari malformations classified according to the degree of severity, with type 1 being the most common and least severe:

Chiari malformation type 1
Chiari malformation type 2
Chiari malformation type 3
Chiari malformation type 4

Some researchers add a type 0 to the classification, which is characterized by no or very little herniation of the cerebellum.^[1]

Last updated: 8/11/2017

Research Research

Research helps us better understand diseases and can lead to advances in diagnosis and treatment. This section provides resources to help you learn about medical research and ways to get involved.

Clinical Research Resources

ClinicalTrials.gov lists trials that are related to Chiari malformation. Click on the link to go to ClinicalTrials.gov to read descriptions of these studies.

Please note: Studies listed on the ClinicalTrials.gov website are listed for informational purposes only; being listed does not reflect an endorsement by GARD or the NIH. We strongly recommend that you talk with a trusted healthcare provider before choosing to participate in any clinical study.

Do you have updated information on this disease? We want to hear from you.

Organizations Organizations

Support and advocacy groups can help you connect with other patients and families, and they can provide valuable services. Many develop patient-centered information and are the driving force behind research for better treatments and possible cures. They can direct you to research, resources, and services. Many organizations also have experts who serve as medical advisors or provide lists of doctors/clinics. Visit the group’s website or contact them to learn about the services they offer. Inclusion on this list is not an endorsement by GARD.

Organizations Supporting this Disease

American Syringomyelia & Chiari Alliance Project (ASAP)
PO Box 1586
Longview, TX 75606-1586
Toll-free: 1-800-272-7282
Telephone: +1-903-236-7079
Fax: +1-903-757-7456
E-mail: info@ASAP.org
Website: https://asap.org/
Bobby Jones Chiari & Syringomyelia Foundation (Bobby Jones CSF)
c/o Dorothy Poppe
29 Crest Loop
Staten Island, NY 10312
Telephone: +1-718-966-2593
Fax: +1-718-966-2593 (please call first)
E-mail: dpoppe@bobbyjonescsf.org
Website: https://bobbyjonescsf.org/
Worldwide Syringomyelia & Chiari Task Force Inc.
PO Box 491975
Lawrenceville, GA 30049
Telephone: +1-914-510-CURE (2873)
E-mail: wstfcure@wstfcure.org
Website: https://www.wstfcure.org

Do you know of an organization? We want to hear from you.

Learn More Learn More

These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

Where to Start

The Bobby Jones Chiari & Syringomyelia Foundation offers information on Chiari malformation
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) collects and disseminates research information related to neurological disorders. Click on the link to view information on this topic.
The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) has a report for patients and families about this condition. NORD is a patient advocacy organization for individuals with rare diseases and the organizations that serve them.

In-Depth Information

Medscape Reference provides information on this topic. You may need to register to view the medical textbook, but registration is free.
PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Chiari malformation. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

GARD Answers GARD Answers

Questions sent to GARD may be posted here if the information could be helpful to others. We remove all identifying information when posting a question to protect your privacy. If you do not want your question posted, please let us know.

Have a question? Contact a GARD Information Specialist.