Arnold-Chiari malformation type I and sleep-disordered breathing: an uncommon manifestation of an important pediatric problem.
A case review of a healthy 3-year-old toddler with a chief complaint of sleep-disordered breathing is presented. The child underwent a pneumogram sleep study with significant abnormal findings. Magnetic resonance imaging led to a diagnosis of Arnold-Chiari type I malformation and the need for posterior fossa decompression. The child has been monitored, and 1 year postoperatively, her sleep apnea has resolved and day-time function and development remain normal. Definitions of the different types of Arnold-Chiari malformation are discussed, with sleep apnea presenting as the only symptom. The importance of a sleep history as part of the practitioner's pediatric assessment is explored.
Hershberger
Marjorie L
ML
Apnea Program/Department of Nursing, Nemours Children's Clinic-Wilmington, Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE 19899, USA. mhersh@nemours.org
Chidekel
Aaron
A
D001139:Arnold-Chiari Malformation / Q000145:classification / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D019299:Decompression, Surgical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007796:Laminectomy; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008487:Medical History Taking; D009722:Nurse Practitioners; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010371:Pediatric Nursing; D017286:Polysomnography; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D020182:Sleep Apnea, Central / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires