Arnold-Chiari malformation type I and sleep-disordered breathing: an uncommon manifestation of an important pediatric problem

J Pediatr Health Care. 2003 Jul-Aug;17(4):190-7. doi: 10.1067/mph.2003.36.

Abstract

A case review of a healthy 3-year-old toddler with a chief complaint of sleep-disordered breathing is presented. The child underwent a pneumogram sleep study with significant abnormal findings. Magnetic resonance imaging led to a diagnosis of Arnold-Chiari type I malformation and the need for posterior fossa decompression. The child has been monitored, and 1 year postoperatively, her sleep apnea has resolved and day-time function and development remain normal. Definitions of the different types of Arnold-Chiari malformation are discussed, with sleep apnea presenting as the only symptom. The importance of a sleep history as part of the practitioner's pediatric assessment is explored.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arnold-Chiari Malformation / classification
  • Arnold-Chiari Malformation / complications*
  • Arnold-Chiari Malformation / diagnosis
  • Arnold-Chiari Malformation / therapy
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Decompression, Surgical
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Laminectomy
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Medical History Taking
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Nurse's Role
  • Nursing Assessment
  • Pediatric Nursing
  • Polysomnography
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Sleep Apnea, Central / diagnosis
  • Sleep Apnea, Central / etiology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires