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Diagnosis for Chiari Malformation

Posted , 4 users are following.

snoopy123
snoopy123

Hi everyone,

I am having strong symptoms of Chiari Malformation and had a brain MRI lying down. This came back clear, however I am concerned that this might not have caught everything. Is this enough for diagnosis of Chiari, or should I do further tests? My main symptoms are intense head pressure (back of head) and vertigo-type dizziness, with some hearing alterations. Symptoms tend to wax and wane. Thanks for your input/experience on this matter!

0 likes, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • helen11122
    helen11122 snoopy123

    Posted

    Hi, I had mri lying down for back and head a few times over the yrs and apart from wear and tear it was clear, and after having back problems my spinal consultant sent me for scans and found that I had chiari-malformation. Not saying they have missed it but would discuss it with consultant to put your mind at rest. Good luck.
    • snoopy123
      snoopy123 helen11122

      Posted

      Thanks helen. I am hoping to get an appointment with a neurologist soon and discuss about this. Was it the back MRI that showed it or the brain MRI?
    • helen11122
      helen11122 snoopy123

      Posted

      Think he did a neck and head, he also said it can get missed. Let me know how you get on.
  • jennacyde
    jennacyde snoopy123

    Posted

    I had a few MRIs that were negative even though I have Chiari. You should do a cervical and also prior talk to radiologist and let them know you suspect Chiari due to symptoms. Ask them to check all views. Coronal view shows both tonsils. Unfortunately most radiologists focus too much on the mid slice sagittal image. You could also try an upright (cervical) and I would have them include flex and extend if you can get one.
    • snoopy123
      snoopy123 jennacyde

      Posted

      Thanks for your input. I am thinking of doing an upright brain & cervical MRI (is the flex/extend on MRI?) and a brain Cine MRI. Would this catch any sign of Chiari/cervical instability or is there any other tests to do? Btw do you live in UK? I haven't found any Chiari+EDS specialist place here..
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