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Updated: Jul 14, 2026
10:39
3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache
Published on: June 2, 2014
Migraine and cerebrovascular disease
1Neurological Department, A. Manzoni Hospital, Via dell'Eremo 9/11, I-23900 Lecco (LC), Italy. e.agostoni@libero.it
Summary
Migraine and stroke have a complex link. Research explores if migraine is a stroke risk factor, if it causes stroke, or if both share underlying causes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- The association between migraine and stroke is intricate and bidirectional.
- Migraine is suggested as a potential risk factor for stroke.
- White matter abnormalities are observed more frequently in migraine patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the complex relationship between migraine and stroke.
- To analyze migraine as a risk factor for stroke.
- To investigate migraine as a cause of stroke and shared underlying conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies on migraine and stroke.
- Analysis of magnetic resonance imaging findings in migraine patients.
- Examination of clinical data on stroke occurring during migraine with aura attacks.
Main Results:
- Migraine may act as a risk factor for stroke.
- Stroke can occur during a migraine with aura attack (migrainous stroke).
- Alternative mechanisms, including cerebral ischemia and shared underlying conditions, are considered.
Conclusions:
- The relationship between migraine, aura, and stroke is complex and not strictly causal.
- Migraine aura might be a consequence of cerebral ischemia.
- Both migraine with aura and stroke may stem from a common underlying condition.
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