The role of nuclear magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of Arnold-Chiari malformation.

The diagnosis and demonstration of an Arnold-Chiari malformation (ACM), in particular the Type I ACM, presents a challenge to the clinician and diagnostic imaging specialist. Various imaging techniques have been used to demonstrate this condition in the past; as with other pathologies, the value of nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI) will naturally be compared with current techniques in the diagnosis of this abnormality. In this paper the authors give a brief history of the condition, an indication of current imaging techniques, and suggest an important role for NMRI in the demonstration of Arnold-Chiari malformations.