Complete spontaneous resolution of childhood Chiari I malformation and associated syringomyelia

Abstract

The diagnosis of Chiari I malformation and associated syringomyelia is often made in childhood. Since the advent of magnetic resonance imaging, these abnormalities are increasingly detected incidentally. Despite incomplete understanding of the natural history of asymptomatic Chiari I malformations, the current recommendation is to consider prophylactic surgical intervention in those with an associated syringomyelia. This case report presents a complete spontaneous resolution of a Chiari I malformation and syringomyelia in a child. It illustrates the possibility that asymptomatic children with Chiari I malformations and syringomyelia may be followed conservatively.