At the Forefront - UChicago Medicine

Chiari Malformation Type 1

Chiari malformation type 1 (CM1) is a congenital anomaly of the cerebellum — the part of brain located at the base of the skull and brain stem. In CM1, the tissue in the lower part of the cerebellum protrudes into the spinal canal, which can obstruct cerebrospinal fluid from flowing into the spinal canal. This causes pressure on surrounding tissues. The cerebellum is important for movement and balance, and the brain stem is important for basic body functions. The malformation can be mild with few to no symptoms, or it can be severe.

The Margaret Hackett Family Program

At UChicago Medicine, our dedicated neurosurgeons are here to help. For more information about chiari malformation and the resources we have available, please call the Margaret Hackett Family Program (MHFP) at 773-795-0622. 

Symptoms of Chiari Malformation 

Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of your CM. The most common symptom is a severe headache in the back of the head.

The headache may come and go, radiate to your neck and shoulders or worsen when you cough, sneeze or strain.

Other symptoms may include:

  • Difficulty swallowing or speaking
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of coordination
  • Muscle weakness
  • Numbing or tingling in extremities
  • Ringing in the ears or hearing problems
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Vision problems

Causes of Chiari Malformation

While the cause of chiari malformation in children and adults is unknown, it is thought to begin in the early stages of brainstem and spinal cord development (congenital). Symptoms for chiari malformation may also develop later in life (secondary CM). These cases may be caused by a leak of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) around the brain and spinal cord, leading to low pressure.

In children, CM occurs equally in boys and girls. In adults, it is three times more common in women than men. Family history also increases the risk of CM.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Chiari Malformation

Chiari malformation is evaluated with a medical history and physical exam along with imaging tests such as MRI and/or CT scan.

Treatment for chiari malformation depends on the severity of symptoms.

Treatment may include:

  • Medicine or alternative treatment to relieve head and neck pain
  • Decompression surgery to prevent the worsening of malformation, or to treat severe symptoms

If you are not experiencing any symptoms, you may not need treatment.

Request an Appointment

The information you provide will enable us to assist you as efficiently as possible. A representative will contact you within one to two business days to help you schedule an appointment.

To speak to someone directly, please call 1-773-702-2123. If you have symptoms of an urgent nature, please call your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately.

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By submitting this form you acknowledge the risk of sending this information by email and agree not to hold the University of Chicago or University of Chicago Medical Center liable for any damages you may incur as a result of the transfer or use of this information. The use or transmittal of this form does not create a physician-contact relationship. More information regarding the confidentiality of this request can be found in our Privacy Policy.