What does ACM mean in BRITISH MEDICINE

Arnold Chiari Malformation (ACM) is a condition where parts of the brain and skull are not properly developed. It can cause blockages in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which can lead to a number of issues with the central nervous system.

Symptoms associated with ACM vary depending on its severity, but can include headaches, dizziness, vision problems, numbness or weakness in the arms and legs, difficulty swallowing or speaking, coordination issues, and balance problems.

The exact cause of ACM is unknown; however, it may be related to genetics or other factors such as infections or maternal alcohol abuse during pregnancy.

Treatments for ACM vary depending on each individual's case and may include lifestyle changes such as diet modifications and physical therapy to address coordination and weakness issues. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct any structural deformities caused by ACM. Q5: Is there an increased risk of having an additional medical issue if someone has ACM? A5: Yes, due to the structural alterations caused by ACM, those affected may have an increased risk of developing syrinx's in their spinal cord which can damage nerves leading from the brain to other parts of the body resulting in potentially serious health complications. Additionally, hydrocephalus may also develop due to blockages in cerebrospinal fluid flow as well as seizures and other behavioral or cognitive issues.