Anomalies in the cognitive-executive functions in patients with Chiari Malformation Type I.

BACKGROUND: Over the last decade there has been growing evidence that neuropsychological deficits, principally in the executive functions, may be involved in the pathogenesis of Chiari Type I disease. The aim of this study is to compare changes in cognitive function in patients with Chiari Type I and healthy subjects.

METHOD: The neuropsychological profile of these patients was compared with healthy controls. Three neuropsychological tests were administered to both Chiari Type I patients and healthy controls to assess the frontal executive functions of vigilance or selective attention, mental flexibility, planning and concept formation.

RESULTS: The results suggest that Chiari Type I patients are affected in the processes of inhibition and self-control as well as in attention capacity and maintaining a course of thought and action.

CONCLUSIONS: These results provide evidence of possible deficits or anomalies in the cognitive executive functions of patients with Chiari Type I.