What does it mean if you have low-lying cerebellar tonsils?

Low-lying tonsils, sometimes also called benign tonsillar ectopia, is a subtype of cerebellar tonsillar ectopia denoting asymptomatic and only slight downward descent of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum and is distinct from Chiari I malformations.

Can Chiari malformation be seen on CT?

The only real way to diagnose a Chiari I malformation, is with an MRI. A CAT Scan or CT scan may not show it, and a plain x-ray will never visualize the disorder. The MRI can show how much pressure the Chiari malformation is putting on the brainstem and the spinal cord.

What is a cerebellar tonsil?

Cerebellar tonsils are bilateral ovoid structures, located in the inferoanterior part of the cerebellar hemispheres, with a close relationship with inferior lobules and, in some cases, may be recognized also on midsagittal planes.

How is cerebellar tonsillar herniation measured?

The position of the cerebellar tonsils is measured on sagittal T1- or T2-weighted images of the cervical spine or brain by drawing a line at the foramen magnum from the inner margin of the ophisthion to the basion, and then measuring the distance from that line to the inferior most margin of the cerebellar tonsils.

What does a low cerebellar tonsil indicate?

Low lying cerebellar tonsils refer to the presence of cerebellar tissue below the foramen magnum . Usually referred to as Arnold Chiari Type I, which are in general asymptomatic and seen as an incidental finding on MRI of the brain. Best to check with your doctor for certain.

What does low lying cerebellar tonsils mean?

Low-lying tonsils. Low-lying tonsils, sometimes also called benign tonsillar ectopia , is a subtype of cerebellar tonsillar ectopia denoting asymptomatic and only slight downward descent of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum and is distinct from Chiari I malformations.

What causes cerebellar ectopia?

Causes of Cerebellar Tonsillar Ectopia. There are several causes due to which cerebellar tonsillar ectopia develops. This kind of disease mainly develops at the time of fetal development. The main reason due to which cerebellar tonsillar ectopia is formed during fetal development is the lack of certain nutrient in the maternal diet.

Is cerebellar tonsillar ectopia serious?

Thus it is seen that cerebellar tonsillar ectopia is a serious disorder that can take the life of a person. So, if you are observing any kind of symptoms that are mentioned above, it is advisable to go to the doctor immediately for proper diagnosis of the problem.