Chiari disease is a complex group of disorders that are characterized by a herniation of the cerebellum through the large opening in the base of the skull (foramen magnum) into the spinal canal.
Chiari is often misspelt as Kiari, phonetically both sounds the same.
There are three main types of Chiari Malformation. CM1, the simplest and most prevalent form, is generally considered to be a congenital malformation. CM2 and CM3 are more severe congenital malformations that are apparent at birth and associated with complex defects of the brain and spinal cord.
The majority of patients complain of severe headache and neck pain. Other common symptoms are dizziness, vertigo, disequilibrium, visual disturbances, ringing in the ears, difficulty swallowing, palpitations, sleep apnea, muscle weakness, impaired fine motor skills, chronic fatigue and painful tingling of the hands and feet.
