Confusion about Chiari

[LG0526]

Is Arnold Chiari Malformation and Tethered Spinal Cord Syndrome the same thing?

[Shane99]

No, Chiari is a congenital malformation where the cerebellum starts herniating into the spine. It's generally a brain issue, but as it starts effecting the spine, it can cause Syringomyelia - which is fluid build up in the spine, causing severe pains in the back as well as paralysis.

Tethered Spinal Cord Syndrome is a neurological disorder caused by tissue attachments that limit the movement of the spinal cord within the spinal column. It's not necessarily considered congenital and can be brought on by other factors. It also can develop or cause Syringomyelia.

Both are associated with Spina Bifida.

And I suppose it's at least possible Chiari could lead to Tethered Spinal Cord Syndrome, but that is strictly an opinion of mine and I'm not a Health Care Professional.