Arnold-Chiari malformation diagnostic study of choice

Arnold-Chiari malformation Microchapters
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Diagnostic Study of Choice
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Fahimeh Shojaei, M.D.

Overview

MRI is the gold standard test for the diagnosis of Arnold Chiari malformation. Cerebellar tonsillar herniation, wedge shaped tonsils, syringohydromyelia, small posterior fossa, obstructive hydrocephalus, and brainstem anomalies.

Diagnostic Study of Choice

Study of choice

MRI is the gold standard test for the diagnosis of Arnold Chiari malformation.

Diagnostic results

The following findings on performing MRI are confirmatory for Arnold Chiari malformation:

• Cerebellar tonsillar herniation
• Wedge shaped tonsils
• Syringohydromyelia
• Small posterior fossa
• Obstructive hydrocephalus
• Brainstem anomalies

Sequence of Diagnostic Studies

The various investigations must be performed in the following order:

• History and physical examination
• MRI

Diagnostic criteria

There are no established criteria for the diagnosis of Arnold Chiari malformation.