Chiari malformation is an abnormality of the brain that occurs at the joints of the skull and spine. According to research, Chiari malformation is categorized into four types, which are type I, II, III, and IV. Chiari malformation causes severe headache, back pain, and neck pain. Chiari may also cause concussions, such as temporary memory loss and confusion. Roswell Chiari malformation is a health care center that treats and manages brain and spine related issues. Below are the four types of Chiari malformations.

The four types of Chiari malformation

·       Type I Chiari malformation. Type I Chiari occurs during the development of the fetus. It occurs when the cerebellar tonsil moves downward by 4 millimeters beneath the foramen magnum around the cervical spinal canal.  After development, it is diagnosed in adulthood and the adolescent stage. Symptoms of Chiari type I include neck pain, headache, and back pain, which are so severe, falling due to muscle weakness, spasticity, dizziness, weakening of legs and hand muscles, and difficulties in maintaining balance.

·       Type II Chiari malformation. This malformation happens when the medulla, cerebellum, and ventricle are displaced downwards into the cervical spinal canal. This condition also occurs during the development of the fetus. Patients suffering from myelomeningocele condition are likely to suffer from type II Chiari malformation. Other conditions that may facilitate the occurrence of type II Chiari are cardiovascular abnormalities and hydrocephalus.  Symptoms of type II  Chiari include depreciating of arm strength, depressed gag reflex, and rapid, downward eye movement.

·       Type III Chiari malformation. Type III Chiari occurs when a portion of the cerebellum tries to push out through an opening at the back of your head or neck. This condition affects fewer people across the world, thus making it very rare to find. According to the specialist, when it is diagnosed and treated in advance, its defects can be mild.

·       Type IV Chiari malformation. This occurs when the cerebellum fails to develop naturally. It is the most severe, thus making it very rare to find. It develops at fetal stages, and children diagnosed with the condition do not survive at all costs.

The below paragraph shows the diagnosis of Chiari malformation.

Diagnosis of Chiari malformation

There are several tests doctors use to test Chiari malformation. This method includes:

·       Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This technique is used to produce a three-dimensional structure of your body using magnetic fields and computer technology. Magnetic resonance imaging helps the doctor locate the area of defect, giving the doctor an easy time during treatment or surgery.

·       Computer tomography scanners and CT scans. This technology produces the image of the affected area by the use of X-rays. It shows a clear picture of cerebral ventricles and the broken bone. The doctor also uses the technology to evaluate the skull and the cervical canal.

Chiari malformation is a condition that occurs where the spine meets with the brain. It is classified into four types, where type I and II are common, and type III and IV are not common. Chiari malformation occurs during the development of a fetus and is diagnosed during adolescence and adulthood.