Spontaneous syrinx resolution in patient with Chiari I malformation: illustrative case

Chiari malformations include a spectrum of congenital hindbrain herniation syndromes. In patients with the most common subtype, Chiari malformation Type I, 50% to 75% develop a syrinx. The pathogenesis of syringomyelia is not well understood, with multiple theories outlined in the literature. Although the presence of a syrinx in a patient with Chiari malformation is generally accepted as an indication for surgical intervention, there are documented cases of spontaneous resolution that support a more conservative approach to management.

The authors reported a case of spontaneous resolution of a cervical syrinx in an adult with an unchanged Chiari malformation.

Given the possibility of spontaneous resolution over time, the authors believe a more conservative approach of observation with periodic surveillance, magnetic resonance imaging, and neurological examination should be considered in the management of a patient with a Chiari malformation and associated syringomyelia.