Abstract
Purpose of Review
Chiari malformations (CM) are a group of neuroanatomical pathologies resulting from overcrowding of the hindbrain. The purpose of this review is to characterize Chiari headache (CH) and describe diagnosis and treatment of the condition.
Recent Findings
Recent research has helped solidify the criteria for diagnosis of CH. Imaging studies have expanded our understanding of the morphological features producing them and helped to better characterize the pathophysiology. Additionally, identifying this unusual headache disorder accurately has helped with specific treatment options.
Summary
CH is a disabling condition which can effect multiple domains of a patient’s life. The diagnostic criteria has improved, and we now have a better understanding of the pathophysiology and imaging findings associated with CH. Future research is warranted to find new treatment options for individuals suffering from this condition.
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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance
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Amit Mehta, Priyanka Chilakamarri, and Adeel Zubair declare no conflict of interest. Deena Kuruvilla has been a speaker for Amgen Migraine program and a Neurology consultant for GLG consulting group, both outside of this work.
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This article does not contain any studies with human or animal subjects performed by any of the authors.
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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Uncommon and/or Unusual Headaches and Syndromes
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Mehta, A., Chilakamarri, P., Zubair, A. et al. Chiari Headache. Curr Pain Headache Rep 22, 49 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-018-0702-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-018-0702-8