Incidental Detection of Arnold Chiari – I Malformation on MRI in a Case of Neck Pain

Abstract

Chiari malformations are spectrum of congenital hindbrain abnormalities. With advancing use of MR imaging, Chiari malformation is discovered with increasing frequency. A 19- year-old male presented with complain of the neck pain and occipital headache. No past history suggestive of trauma, fall or tuberculosis. Cranial nerve examination and higher function examination was within normal limits. Routine blood investigations and chest X-ray were normal. Cervical spine showed partial occipitalization of the C1 vertebra. On MRI, partial occipitalization of C1 vertebra was seen with inferior cerebellar tonsillar herniation below the foramen magnum in upper cervical spinal with syrinx formation from C2 to L1 level. Patient was diagnosed as Arnold Chiari Type – I malformation based on the imaging features.

Keywords

• congenital hindbrain abnormalities
• occipital headache
• radiology