A case of sleep-disordered breathing presenting with increased intracranial pressure in a child with type 1 Chiari malformation

J Clin Sleep Med. 2025 Jan 1;21(1):215-217. doi: 10.5664/jcsm.11388.

Abstract

Sleep-disordered breathing, with both central and obstructive sleep apneas, has been reported in association with Chiari malformation type 1. Chiari malformation type 1 is a congenital or acquired herniation of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum. In this case, a 5-year-old girl with a history of Chiari malformation type 1 and syringomyelia experienced worsening intracranial pressure secondary to sleep-disordered breathing. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of sleep-related respiratory disorders in patients with Chiari malformation and its association with increased intracranial pressure.

Citation: Machin Y, Morales DS, Garagozlo K, Graw-Panzer K. A case of sleep-disordered breathing presenting with increased intracranial pressure in a child with type 1 Chiari malformation. J Clin Sleep Med. 2025;21(1):215-217.

Keywords: Chiari malformation type 1; child; intracranial pressure; sleep-disordered breathing; syringomyelia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Arnold-Chiari Malformation* / complications
  • Arnold-Chiari Malformation* / physiopathology
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Hypertension / complications
  • Intracranial Hypertension / diagnosis
  • Intracranial Hypertension / physiopathology
  • Intracranial Pressure / physiology
  • Polysomnography
  • Sleep Apnea Syndromes* / complications
  • Sleep Apnea Syndromes* / physiopathology
  • Syringomyelia / complications
  • Syringomyelia / physiopathology