Chiari Malformation

Diagnosis

In Mayo Clinic's efficient system, teams of experienced specialists provide patients with thorough physical and neurologic examinations. They reference an extensive medical history for each patient.

Some symptoms of Chiari malformation, such as severe headaches, neck pain, and problems with balance and dizziness, may be subtle. They can wrongly be attributed to similar symptoms of unrelated chronic conditions. Some patients with Chiari malformation show no symptoms. Their condition is detected through tests performed for unrelated disorders. These patients often don't need treatment.

Mayo specialists use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the skull, the most definitive test for Chiari malformation diagnosis, to view the cerebellum and surrounding structures accurately. These images help them determine what form the Chiari malformation has taken and the extent to which it has progressed.

At Mayo, neurologists also use MRI to examine the spinal cord and the fluid surrounding it to identify the structural abnormalities causing the symptoms. Mayo specialists may order a CT scan or X-ray to study bone tissue if they have concerns about the bones surrounding the spinal cord.

See also diagnosis in children.