Hindbrain hernia headache and syncope in type I Arnold-Chiari malformation.

Abstract

We describe two young women affected with syncopal episodes and occipital headache exacerbated by cough, sneezing, rising, or effort. MRI revealed in both patients type I Arnold-Chiari malformation. A craniospinal pressure dissociation with brainstem compression may be involved in the pathogenesis of headache and syncope.