Which symptom is commonly associated with Chiari II malformation?

• A. Stridor
• B. Rash
• C. Hearing loss
• D. Seizures

Answer: (A)

Chiari II malformation often involves brainstem structures, and this can disrupt the nerves that control the larynx and airway. When the lower cranial nerves and brainstem pathways that govern vocal cord movement and airway protection are affected, infants can develop stridor— a high-pitched sound from partial upper airway obstruction. This stridor reflects laryngeal dysfunction and impaired airway regulation caused by brainstem compression seen with Chiari II, especially in the setting of myelomeningocele.

Rash isn’t related to neural tube defects, seizures aren’t a defining feature of Chiari II (though they can occur with broader brain abnormalities), and hearing loss isn’t a characteristic sign of Chiari II. The airway signal of stridor best fits the typical pattern associated with this condition.