Chiari malformation, also known as
Arnold–Chiari malformation, is a condition affecting the
brain. It consists of a downward displacement of the
cerebellar tonsils through the
foramen magnum (the opening at the base of the skull), sometimes causing non-communicating
hydrocephalus as a result of obstruction of
cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) outflow. The cerebrospinal fluid outflow is caused by phase difference in outflow and influx of blood in the
vasculature of the brain. It can cause headaches, fatigue, muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing (sometimes accompanied by gagging), choking and vomiting, dizziness, nausea, tinnitus, impaired coordination, neck pain, unsteady gait (problems with balance), poor hand coordination (fine motor skills), numbness and tingling of the hands and feet, and speech problems (such as hoarseness).