Acquired Chiari malformation following spinal cord injury—a case series

Abstract

Introduction: Chiari malformation is characterized by caudal descent of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum. Acquired Chiari malformations (ACM) have previously been described after a variety of pathologies including lumbar puncture, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage, lumboperitoneal shunts, and conditions causing craniocephalic disproportion. Case presentation: We present four cases of ACM following spinal cord injury (SCI), which has not previously been described in the literature. Discussion: ACM is rare and typically associated with abnormalities in CSF pressure or space-occupying lesions. This case series describes the potential association of SCI with ACM. We discuss the imaging findings and clinical management of these patients. Early recognition and intervention may be important to prevent progressive neurology in this vulnerable patient group.