An often unrecognized type of Chiari Malformation in which the cerebellum is blocking the foramen magnum, but not descended through it (no herniation), or is less than the 3mm required by the diagnosis criteria. Because of its position, it is blocking the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and consequently, causing a syrinx.
For more on Chiari Zero, check out: Chiari Zero, Explained
Disc degeneration occurs when the disc space between the vertebrae dehydrate, thin, and ultimately bulge, slip, or herniate into the spinal cord. While those in the general population have an occasional disc problem, those with a connective tissue disorder such as Ehler’s-Danlos Syndrome, tend to have multiple discs with signs of degeneration (either in a single level (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar) or in the entire spine itself) and it is then considered Degenerative Disc Disease.
Etiological Co-factor: Heritable Disorders of Connective Tissue (HDCT), such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS).
A chronic and often progressive neurological condition in which a cyst (syrinx) fills with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) inside the brainstem, often starting as a syrinx in the spinal cord (Syringomyelia) and extending upward into the medulla (bulbar area) of the lower brainstem (Syringobulbia). This cyst can enlarge and further compromising the brainstem. The extent of damage done by a syrinx in brainstem often depends on the size of the syrinx.
The exact reason syrinxes form is not quite clear, but they are believed to form from the blockage of CSF, just above the point of blockage (such as that consistent with a Chiari malformation, Spina Bifida, Tethered Cord Syndrome, a spinal cyst, a herniated disc, a spinal cord trauma/injury, or even meningitis can cause inflammation that can obstruct the flow of CSF).
Symptoms Include: Dizziness (vertigo; sometimes accompanied by nausea/vomiting); difficulty swallowing (dysphagia); problems breathing; snoring/sleep apnea; involuntary rapid movement of the eyeball (nystagmus); facial numbness/palsies/paralysis; small involuntary muscle contractions of the tongue (fibrillation); stuttering; hoarse voice (dysphonia); hearing loss; ringing in the ears (tinnitus); Dysautonomia
