Chiari 1 malformation with atlanto-occipital assimilation and basilar invagination

Case contributed by Aneta Kecler-Pietrzyk
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Admitted with history of fall, head trauma and severe headache since.

Patient Data

Age: 30 years
Gender: Male

No acute intracranial abnormality.

Incidental note of low lying cerebellar tonsils suspicious for Chiari 1 malformation.

There is also complete atlantooccipital fusion noted associated with basilar invagination ( see annotated image with C2 dens seen above McRae line). Both skeletal abnormalities are associated with Chiari 1 malformation.  

McRae line with tip of dens extending above in keeping with basilar invagination. 

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.