Question about radiology report

[Mll8]

Does anyone know what "there is some persistent CSF around the cerebellar tonsils and brainstem at the foramen magnum." means? Trying to figure out if this is good or bad. I do have Chiari. Thanks for any help!

[selmaS]

  Well again it is hard to know as all radiologists seem to use there own verbiage on the reports...ur Dr will or should review the MRI and not rely on the report to make a determination.

A CINE MRI should be done as well as MRI's of the thoracic and lumbar spine......

Also check for related conditions like tethered cord, ICP, POTS, sleep apnea, ehlers-danlos....it is very important to check these b4 surgery is considered.

I know what u mean with the statement and it could mean a few things....and to clear it up a CINE may be the best way...IMHO.

[Mll8]

Hi,
This was a regular MRI. Other notations in the report were the length of my herniation and that there was no evidence of a syrinx in my cervical spine. I've never had a CINE MRI. I have some bulging discs and mild cervical spondylosis also. But that one sentence is what concerns me. Usually I understand the reports, but that one statement I don't and I don't see my doctor again for a few months.

[selmaS]

  Hi and welcome to the Chiari forum.

It depends on is this report from a CINE MRI...?? or a reg MRI?

CSF is supposed to flow past the cerebral tonsils...not collect in that area so it may be indicating an obstruction of flow.

What else is in the report may be helpful to get a feel for where this radiologist was headed with this statement.

And if u haven't had a CINE MRI , I would think it is the next step.

[Mel5056]

Sounds like a good thing doesnt it?