Abnormality of the lower cranial nerves as a symptom of Chiari's syndrome
Fernández Martínez, J.A.; Martínez Sánchez, J.A.; Alvarez Méndez, J.C.; Gordo Fraile, P.
Acta Otorrinolaringologica Espanola 49(8): 654-657
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0001-6519 PMID: 9951089 Document Number: 496664
Dysfunction of the last cranial pairs can occur in some neurological diseases, such as Chiari's malformation. This entity causes herniation of the cerebellar amygdalas through the foramen magnum, producing descent of the brainstem and traction on the lower cranial pairs. This dysfunction occurs in 57-70% of patients with this malformation, which is why the disease may be diagnosed in the ENT clinic. Clinical suspicion of this entity after exhaustive examination of the patient, early disease diagnosis and correct selection of surgical treatment can alleviate major symptoms and prevent neurological complications in some cases.