Neonatal Arnold–Chiari II Malformation: An Imaging‐Focused Case Report

TL;DR

This case report highlights the importance of MRI in diagnosing Arnold-Chiari II malformation in a neonate and the benefits of early surgical and multidisciplinary care.

Contribution

The paper presents a rare neonatal case of Arnold-Chiari II malformation with detailed imaging findings and successful surgical management.

Findings

MRI confirmed Arnold-Chiari II malformation along with multiple associated brain anomalies in a neonate.

Early surgical intervention, including VP shunt placement, was successful in managing the condition.

Multidisciplinary care is emphasized as crucial for improving neonatal outcomes in such cases.

Abstract

Arnold‐Chiari Malformation Type II (CM‐II) is a serious congenital hindbrain disorder marked by the displacement of the cerebellum and brainstem downwards through the foramen magnum. CM‐II is frequently linked with myelomeningocele and hydrocephalus. We present a case of a male neonate delivered through C‐section with myelomeningocele, hydrocephalus, and paralysis of the lower limbs. MRI revealed the presence of Arnold‐Chiari Malformation Type II along with dysgenesis of the corpus callosum, absent septum pellucidum, scaphocephaly, and the presence of a small syrinx. Surgical management, including ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement, was successful. This case underlines the significance of MRI in diagnosis and the necessity of the early multidisciplinary management for the improvement of neonatal outcomes.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a central role in the early diagnosis of Arnold–Chiari II malformation by delineating hindbrain herniation and associated anomalies. Early surgical intervention and coordinated multidisciplinary care are crucial to minimize complications and improve survival and neurodevelopmental outcomes in affected neonates.

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