Please let me know that whether Arnold Chiari Type 1 is a genetic disease or a congenital disease. I have tried to view web-sites in medical dictionaries. But, some sites mention it as 'defect' and some mention it as 'malformation'.
However, at one place, I have observed that cause of Arnold Chiari Type 1 is stated as under :
Cause of Arnold Chiari Type 1 :
Although the exact cause of Chiari Malformation is unknown, it is thougt that a problem during fetal development may cause the abnormal brain formation. Chiari malformation may be caused by exposure to harmful substances during fetal development or associated with genetic problems or syndromes that may have a tendency to run in families.
Theories suggest that the following may predispose the fetus to problems that affect the normal development of the head during pregnancy :
* Exposure to hazardous chemicals/substances
* lack of proper vitamins and nutrients in the diet
* infection
* prescription or illegal drug and alcohol consumption
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From the above, I feel that a Arnold Chiari Type 1, is a congenital disease sustained in course of pregnancy, at the time of birth by a human due to above referred problems encountered by the mother.
Thus, I feel Arnold Chiari Type 1 is a 'Congenital disease' and not a 'Genetic Disorder'. Disease is something, which is encountered accidentally, whereas Disorder is a hereditarily sustained defect in the body. For eg. obesity, lucoderma, specs, etc. are instances of genetic disorder.
Whereas my colleagues differ in view and feel it to be a genetic disorder. I request you to kindly enlighten whether Arnold Chiari Type 1 is a Congenital Disease or a Genetic Disorder.
Regards,
Zahabux.