MRI Results

[Lilbitt61]

Could you please explain what this MIR report means? I apparently have several issues, and the doctor apparently neglectfully did not even read it, and did not inform me of these problems. I am looking for a new neurologist or neurosurgeon now to get a 2nd opinion. Thank you in advance.

FINDINGS:
MRI brain:
The cerebellar tonsils are minimally low lying, extending approximately 2 mm below the foramen magnum; however, the tonsils maintain a normal rounded configuration. There is no evidence of syringomyelia of the upper cervical cord. The CSF spaces of the foramen magnum remain patent.
The ventricles are normal in size and position. The brain parenchyma has normal signal characteristics. There is no evidence of extraaxial fluid collection or supratentorial mass effect. Expected arterial flow-voids are present.
Retention cyst noted in the left maxillary sinus. The mastoid air cells and middle ears are clear. The orbital contents are within normal limits. No significant osseous or scalp lesions are identified. The pituitary gland is prominent; there is a 3 mm hypoenhancing rounded lesion in the anterior aspect of the pituitary.
The CSF flow study demonstrates grossly normal CSF pulsation signal across the ventral and dorsal foramen magnum. There is no evidence of abnormally exaggerated cranial or caudal pulsations of the lower brainstem, tonsils, or upper cervical cord over the cardiac cycle.
Cervical spine:
The cervical spine is normal in alignment. Vertebral body heights are maintained. Marrow signal is within normal limits. The cervical spinal cord is normal in caliber and signal. There is multilevel disk desiccation. No congenital fusion/segmentation anomalies identified. No abnormal enhancement.
At C5-C6, there is a diffuse disk-osteophyte bulge along with bilateral uncovertebral hypertrophy; there is mild bilateral foraminal stenosis. At C6-C7, there is a diffuse disk-osteophyte bulge with left more than right uncovertebral hypertrophy. There is moderate left and mild right foraminal stenosis. The spinal canal is widely patent from C1 to through C7-T1.

IMPRESSION:
1. Minimally low lying cerebellar tonsils extending 2 mm below the foramen magnum; the tonsils maintain a normal rounded configuration, and the CSF spaces of the foramen magnum are not effaced.
2. CSF flow study at the craniocervical junction demonstrates normal flow.
3. Mild degenerative changes at C5-C6 and C6-C7.
4. Hypoenhancing 3 mm pituitary lesion favored to represent a Rathke's cleft cyst; less likely, this could represent a small microadenoma

[Lilbitt61]

Thank you Dr. I have a slew of symptoms including blackouts (or seizures...not sure which), headaches, tinnitus, blurred double vision, diminished vision and hearing, memory probs, confusion, nausea, back pain, cold feet/hands. tingling/numbness in hands, hypothyroidism, random discharge of tears, a sound like fluid rushing down my neck, a popping/cracking sound in neck which sometimes relieves pressure or causes or relieves headaches, insomnia, IBS symptoms, lower back pain, sciatica, and a slew of other symptoms. Thank you for your imput.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
Minimally low lying cerebellar tonsils (Chiari malformation) with normal CSF flow is unlikely to cause vertigo, dizziness, headaches and other pressure symptoms. Mild degenerative disc disease in C5-6 and C6-7 region can cause pain in neck, upper back and arm and may at times cause dizziness and headaches. Pituitary microadenomas usually do not need treatment. However, all pituitary hormone levels should be tested depending on your symptoms.
I am not aware of your symptoms, but please discuss them with your doctor in light of this MRI report. Take care!

The medical advice given should not be considered a substitute for medical care provided by a doctor who can examine you. The advice may not be completely correct for you as the doctor cannot examine you and does not know your complete medical history. Hence this reply to your post should only be considered as a guiding line and you must consult your doctor at the earliest for your medical problem.