Cyclic vomiting syndrome: a brain-gut disorder

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Gastroenterology
• Genetics

Background:

• Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) is a distinct clinical entity.
• Despite recognition, patients experience frequent hospitalizations and diagnostic procedures.
• Controlled therapeutic studies are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize recent advancements in understanding Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS).
• To highlight current empirical treatment approaches.
• To discuss ongoing research directions for future therapies.

Main Methods:

• Review of international interdisciplinary clinical and research efforts.
• Analysis of empirical therapeutic strategies (anti-migraine, anti-emetic, anti-epileptic).
• Overview of current investigations into migraine mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Substantial advancement in understanding CVS over the last decade.
• Development of reasonably effective empirical treatment regimens.
• Identification of key research areas including NMR spectroscopy, mitochondrial DNA, and autonomic function.

Conclusions:

• Despite progress, CVS management requires further research.
• Ongoing investigations into cellular energetics and brainstem regulation show promise for future breakthroughs.
• New therapies for CVS are anticipated in the coming decade.