Chiari I malformation with neurogenic hypertension: case report

Excerpt

Chiari I malformation presents with pain, headache, dizziness, loss of thermal sensitivity, and changes in strength in the limbs. This occurs due to the involvement of the anatomical structures underlying the occipitocervical junction such as the lower cranial nerves, cerebellum, and major ascending and descending pathways. There is a lack of studies that investigate the association between neurogenic hypertension and Chiari I malformation [1]. The studies that exist have shown the connection between hypertension and vascular compression of neural structures at the brainstem, particularly the rostral ventrolateral medulla oblongata. This association suggests that other compressions of the medulla oblongata can present with elevated blood pressure by a similar mechanism [2, 3]. We report a case of a patient with chronic arterial hypertension without classic signs of Chiari with resolution after decompressive surgery. It seems to be the first case reported in Brazil. …