Arnold-Chiari malformation type I and sleep-disordered breathing: an uncommon manifestation of an important pediatric

Marjorie L Hershberger1, Aaron Chidekel

  • 1Apnea Program/Department of Nursing, Nemours Children's Clinic-Wilmington, Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE 19899, USA. mhersh@nemours.org

Insights

Sleep-disordered breathing in a toddler was successfully treated with posterior fossa decompression for Arnold-Chiari type I malformation. Post-surgery, the child

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Sleep Medicine
  • Neurosurgery

Background:

  • Sleep-disordered breathing is a common pediatric concern.
  • Arnold-Chiari malformation is a rare condition affecting brain structure.
  • Identifying rare causes of pediatric sleep apnea is crucial.

Observation:

  • A healthy 3-year-old presented with sleep-disordered breathing.
  • Sleep study revealed significant abnormalities.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging diagnosed Arnold-Chiari type I malformation.

Findings:

  • Surgical decompression of the posterior fossa was performed.
  • One year postoperatively, sleep apnea resolved completely.
  • The child demonstrated normal daytime function and development.

Implications:

  • Arnold-Chiari type I malformation can present solely with sleep apnea.
  • A thorough sleep history is vital in pediatric assessments.
  • Surgical intervention can effectively resolve sleep apnea in these cases.

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