Hi...the problem here is what they are classifying as Chiari and what is chiari...yes a spontaneous CSF leak may cause the cerebral tonsils to herniate and cause symptoms much like Chiari, the difference, Chiari is the malformation of the skull we have little room to allow the tonsils to retract back into place or allow the CSF flow to not be obstructed...while those with acquired Chiari due to a head trauma or a bad LP or CSF leak, they do have room for the tonsils to retract....and many times once the swelling from the trauma subsides the tonsils do not usually obstruct CSF flow.
Not everyone with a CSF leak spontaneous or from a bad LP will develop Chiari symptoms....
I know my Chiari NS did check for a leak and reviewd all MRI's b4 they classified me a Chiari patient...not sure who wrote this article, but it may be one Dr that does not agree Chiari causes symptoms....u have to decide which u believe....
My mom has dx with spontaneous csf fluid via the nose. they never used the word chiari. she's had 2 sugeries
Hi Peach!! Welcome back : )
And u r right, not everyone that has a spontaneous CSF leak will develop herniated tonsils as a result....and herniated tonsils are NOT Chiari...but it can cause similar symptoms.
There are so many that rebuke Chiari as a condition that causes symptoms, so they feel the need to find a way to explain it all....JMHO