Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale Screen scores in adults with Chiari malformation Type 1

Adult Chiari malformation Type 1 is a neurological condition characterized
by high levels of chronic pain, disability, and psychological distress,
yet self-harming behaviors have not previously been studied in this
patient group. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence
of elevated suicide risk scores among adults with Chiari malformation Type
I using the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale – Screen and examine
the association between risk scores and pain, disability, and
psychological distress. A web-based, anonymous survey was administered,
comprised of validated scales and demographic questions. Suicide
risk (Columbia Screen score) was dichotomized as Low or High-Risk, and
both crude and adjusted odds ratios were calculated to determine
statistical associations with pain, disability, and psychological
measures. Overall, 44% of 372 respondents scored in the High-Risk
group. Depression at the moderate level or above, age younger than 30
years, and severe or complete neck-related disability were each
significant predictors of High-Risk scoring. This study suggests that
suicidal ideation is a potentially serious morbidity associated with
Chiari malformation Type 1 and should be investigated further.