Neurofibromatosis type 1 and Chiari type 1 malformation: A case report and literature review of a rare association

BACKGROUND: The association between neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-I) and Chiari I malformation (CMI) is rare, and not many studies are reported in the literature. Performing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with NF-1 is essential because several cases of Chiari type I are completely asymptomatic. We emphasize the need for inclusion of Chiari I as diagnosis in association with NF-1. CASE DESCRIPTION: The patient was a 51-year-old black man who presented with complaints of pain and decreased motion and sensibility of his hands, wrists, and forearms, along with progressive dysarthria. Even though the computed tomography (CT) scan of the skull did not show changes, the MRI showed hydro/syringomyelia in the cervical spine area. Midline suboccipital craniectomy with total laminectomy of c1 and partial laminectomy of c2 was performed; tonsillectomy was also performed for cistern expansion because of intense thickening and obliteration of the obex by the cerebellar tonsils. Following treatment, the patient showed remission of symptoms. CONCLUSION: NF-1 in association with CMI is rare, and early diagnosis and surgical treatment are essential to slow down the myelopathy; although they prevent neurological damages, patients with NF-1 must remain under doctor's attention in case of association with CMI. Our literature review showed that symptoms can vary and include headache, gait disturbance, and sensory/motor diminution, until asymptomatic patients. Moreover, the incidence of NF-1 is considerably higher in CMI patients in comparison to the global incidence (8.6–11.8% and 0.775%, respectively). The surgical technique must be evaluated case by case according to the degree of cerebrospinal fluid obstruction.