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Primary headaches in children and adolescents
1Headache Centre, National Neurological Institute C. Besta, Via Celoria 11, I-20133 Milan, Italy. liciagrazzi@mac.com
Summary
Headache is common in children and adolescents, with over 40% of migraine cases starting before age 18. The International Headache Society
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Epidemiology of Headache Disorders
Background:
- Headache significantly impacts children and adolescents, with prevalence estimates ranging from 8-60%.
- Over 40% of individuals experiencing migraines develop symptoms before the age of 18.
- Headache in young individuals is a key research area due to simpler investigation parameters compared to adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolving understanding and diagnosis of headache in pediatric and adolescent populations.
- To highlight the impact of standardized diagnostic criteria on headache research in young people.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies on headache prevalence in children and adolescents.
- Analysis of the historical development and impact of diagnostic criteria for headache disorders.
- Examination of factors making headache in the young a distinct research subject.
Main Results:
- Prevalence rates for headache in young populations show significant variation, influenced by study representativeness and diagnostic clarity.
- The International Headache Society (IHS) classification in 1988 provided standardized diagnostic criteria, improving accuracy.
- Post-1988, there has been a notable increase in research focused on headache in children and adolescents.
Conclusions:
- Standardized diagnostic criteria have been crucial for advancing the study of pediatric headaches.
- Continued research is essential to understand and manage headache conditions in young populations effectively.