title: An Unusual Presentation of Chiari I Malformation.
abstract: The most typical symptom of Chiari malformation type I in children is headache. The authors describe a 14-year-old girl who presented with a 3-year history of gait decline and no headache, which is very unusual. After surgery to correct the Chiari I malformation, the patient's gait improved; however, she went on to develop decreased hand use with joint deformities. She was diagnosed with a probable connective tissue disorder. Patients with connective tissue disorders are at increased risk for developing Chiari I malformation. The authors discuss the possible reasons for the unusual presentation of the Chiari I malformation and possible mechanisms. The unusual presentation of Chiari I delayed this young patient's diagnosis and treatment.
authors.affiliation: 1Department of Rehabilitation Services, Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
authors.forename: Capi Seeger
authors.initials: CS
authors.lastname: Scheidler
authors.forename: Meredith R
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Golomb