Hindbrain hernia masquerading as postpartum subarachnoid haemorrhage

Abstract

A 29-year-old postpartum lady presented with a headache suggestive of subarachnoid haemorrhage. Investigations were negative for sources of haemorrhage, but revealed a hindbrain hernia. Hindbrain hernia should be considered as a cause of headache postpartum, as repeated Valsalva manoeuvres performed during vaginal delivery may further aggravate tonsillard decent.

Key Words:

• Chiari malformation
• hindbrain hernia
• postpartum headache