Arnold-Chiari malformation type 1 complicated by sudden onset anterior spinal artery thrombosis, tetraparesis and respiratory arrest

Spinocerebellar Atrophy Type-3 with Chiari Malformation in a Young Man: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION

Chiari malformations are a group of congenital anomalies which involve the hindbrain and the cervical spinal canal.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here, we describe a patient who presented with acute diplopia and gait unsteadiness which was first deigned with Chiari malformation type-1. However due to progression of the ataxia the full neurologic evaluation was considered which established the diagnosis of spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (Machado-Joseph-Disease).

CONCLUSION

We aim to highlight the importance of careful examination in order to avoid misdiagnosis of even rare diseases.

Chiari I Malformation and Spinal Cord Ischemia in a Cadaver

With advanced imaging, the Chiari I malformation (CIM) is more frequently diagnosed than in the past when this entity was identified most commonly at autopsy. Herein, we report the rare case of an adult cadaver found not only to have CIM but also adjacent spinal cord ischemia. This case is discussed in the context of chronic compression of the spinal cord by a CIM and the need for close monitoring of these patients.