Hemifacial spasm and trigeminal neuralgia in Chiari's I malformation with hydrocephalus: case report and literature review

Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2014 Jul:122:64-7. doi: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2014.04.014. Epub 2014 Apr 22.

Abstract

Chiari's I malformation with hydrocephalus is commonly seen in clinical experience. Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and hemifacial spasm (HFS) are most commonly related to vascular compression of the root entry/enter zone (REZ). Until now, TN and HFS associated with hydrocephalus caused by Chiari's malformation have not been reported. The patient was a 24-year old male with left HFS and ipsilateral TN. Arnold-Chiari's I malformation with hydrocephalus and platybasia were found in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain. We underwent a programmable ventriculoperitoneal shunt with complete resolution of all symptoms. This is the first report of one case only presenting as coexistent ipsilateral TN and HFS secondary to Chiari's I malformation with hydrocephalus.

Keywords: Chiari’s I malformation; Hemifacial spasm; Hydrocephalus; Trigeminal neuralgia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Arnold-Chiari Malformation / complications*
  • Arnold-Chiari Malformation / surgery
  • Hemifacial Spasm / etiology*
  • Hemifacial Spasm / surgery
  • Humans
  • Hydrocephalus / complications*
  • Hydrocephalus / surgery
  • Male
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia / etiology*
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia / surgery
  • Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt*
  • Young Adult