Chiari Malformation and Migraine

Abstract Chiari malformations are congenital deformities that are thought to arise from intrauterine underdevelopment of the posterior cranial fossa. The resultant crowding of the posterior fossa causes a downward displacement of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum and into the upper cervical spinal canal. This chapter on Chiari malformation and migraine provides a review of typical findings on history, exam, and imaging when a patient presents with a Chiari malformation. Because individuals who have a primary headache disorder such as migraine can also present with Chiari malformation, the chapter also provides commentary on tips to distinguish between the two headache types.