Is Chiari type I malformation a reason for chronic daily headache.
This article briefly reviews the spectrum of headaches associated with Chiari type I malformation and specifically analyzes current data on the possibility of this malformation as an etiology for some cases of chronic daily headache (CDH). Chiari type I malformation is definitely associated with cough headache and not with primary episodic headaches, with the rare exception of basilar migraine-like cases. With regard to CDH, there is no clear evidence supporting an association with this malformation. An MRI study would be justified only in patients showing either a Valsalva-aggravating component or cervicogenic features. Hydrocephalus and low intracranial pressure syndrome should be ruled out in patients showing tonsillar herniation in an MRI study and consulting due to daily headache.
Riveira
Carmiña
C
Service of Neurology, University Hospital, Paseo de San Vicente 58-182, 37007 Salamanca, Spain.
Pascual
Julio
J
D001139:Arnold-Chiari Malformation / Q000150:complications*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D006261:Headache / Q000209:etiology*; D006547:Hernia / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D014066:Palatine Tonsil; D010608:Pharyngeal Diseases / Q000150:complications