Chiari Malformation as a Differential Diagnosis of Recurrent Syncope

Arnold-Chiari malformations are rare anomalies involving inferior displacement of the cerebellar tonsils and hindbrain through the foramen magnum. We present the case of a 19-year-old woman with a relatively rare presentation of recurrent syncope. The patient underwent surgical treatment with resolution of the symptoms. Few cases of surgical treatment have been described. This case underscores the importance of considering Chiari malformations in the differential diagnose of a common symptom - recurrent syncope - and the relevance of considering these patients for surgical treatment.

Chiari malformation type I (CM-I) should be included in the differential diagnosis in recurrent syncope, especially if accompanied by headache, vertigo, or transient sensory or motor symptoms in the arms or legs.In patients with CM-I with syncope, the good clinical results of surgical decompression should be kept in mind.