Acute foramen magnum syndrome from acquired Chiari I malformation relieved by ventriculoperitoneal shunt revision

Abstract

An adult case of shunt malfunction presenting with acute quadriparesis as a manifestation of foramen magnum syndrome with acquired Chiari type I malformation is described in this study. The corticospinal function was restored after shunt revision. MRI showing considerable ascent of cerebellar tonsils after surgery is shown. Theories regarding the formation of acquired Chiari I malformations, alongside the possible synergistic roles of intracranial pathologies and cerebrospinal fluid drainage in the development of this entity are discussed.

Key words:

• Chiari malformation
• foramen magnum syndrome
• hydrocephalus
• MRI
• ventriculoperitoneal shunt

Declaration of interest:The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.