Core Terms & Classification
Hindbrain (rhombencephalon)
The hindbrain is the part of the brain comprising the cerebellum and brainstem structures involved in Chiari malformation.
In short: Hindbrain (rhombencephalon)
- It includes the cerebellum and parts of the brainstem.
- Its structures are what herniate in Chiari malformation.
- It controls balance, coordination, and vital functions.
- Understanding it clarifies what Chiari involves.
What it is
The hindbrain (rhombencephalon) is the part of the brain at the back and base that comprises the cerebellum and brainstem structures (including the pons and medulla). These are the structures involved in the downward displacement seen in Chiari malformation.
Understanding Hindbrain (rhombencephalon)
The hindbrain houses the cerebellum (which coordinates movement and balance) and parts of the brainstem (which control vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, and swallowing, and carry signals between the brain and body). In Chiari malformation, hindbrain structures — the cerebellar tonsils in type I, and the brainstem as well in type II and the 1.5 variant — extend downward through the foramen magnum. Because these structures serve important functions, their crowding or compression can produce the balance, coordination, and brainstem-related symptoms seen in Chiari. Describing Chiari as a "hindbrain" abnormality emphasizes which region of the brain is affected. Understanding the hindbrain clarifies what Chiari malformation involves and why its symptoms occur.
Why it matters
Understanding the hindbrain helps families see which region of the brain Chiari affects and why its symptoms — involving balance, coordination, and vital functions — arise from crowding of these important structures.
Common questions
What is the hindbrain?
The part of the brain comprising the cerebellum and brainstem structures.
What does it do?
It controls balance, coordination, and vital functions, and carries signals.
Why is it relevant to Chiari?
Its structures are what herniate in Chiari malformation.
Bottom line
The hindbrain comprises the cerebellum and brainstem structures that herniate in Chiari malformation, controlling balance, coordination, and vital functions.
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