Protracted respiratory failure in a case of global spinal syringomyelia and Chiari malformation following administration of diazepam: illustrative case.

Administration of central nervous system depressants should be closely monitored in patients with extensive syrinx formation given the potential to exacerbate diminished central respiratory drive. Early identification of syrinx in the context of Chiari malformation and hemiplegia should prompt clinical suspicion of underlying respiratory compromise and early involvement of intensive care consultants.