Lumbar Puncture

[Abbydabby36]

Just read an interesting article on dizziness-and-balance.com under "Chiari Malformation (Mainly Type I)".  At the end of the article, it states " In our opinion, lumbar punctures, epidural blocks and related procedures that might cause a spinal fluid leak should be avoided whenever practical in persons with known Chiari Malformation.  The reason is to avoid these procedures is that they may worsen the Chiari".

[*Stormy*]

That's interesting, I never realized that narcolepsy could be tested for in your CSF. I looked it up quickly and it seems that they are looking for what there isn't instead of what there is. It doesn't look like this test is a 100% either. If I was in your shoes, I would want them to give me a very good idea of the chance of success in ruling out/in narcolepsy VS the danger it can cause to a Chiari patient. If you go ahead with the LP, I would REALLY make sure that you have someone who knows what they are doing!!! I know in Ireland from what I heard, that might be difficult.

Good luck, let me know how it goes!
Stormy

[jacmurphy]

I got a phone call from my son's NL office today. They say they want to do an LP on him. They have him booked in for 15th June. They want to do this to see if he has Nacrolepsy. I don't know what to do.

[Abbydabby36]

That's basically what I've read.  Per my E Mail from Dr. Rosner, it doesn't sound like this is the problem.  I think I will put the LP on hold and set something up with Dr. Rosner as soon as we are able!

[pamk5]

Yes, I have also read that it can be safely done if someone is aware of the Chiari and draws slowly.  At the moment I dont have alot of faith in that "someone" knowing what he or she is doing.  I think your plan is a good one.  I would delay till I was told by a CM specialist it was necessary and have them do it.