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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
10:39
3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache
Published on: June 2, 2014
Is chronic migraine a primary or a secondary condition?
Vincenzo Bonavita1, Roberto De Simone
1Istituto di Diagnosi e Cura Hermitage Capodimonte, Naples, Italy.
Summary
New insights into headache pathophysiology may allow for redefinition of primary headache types. Chronic migraine is proposed as a consequence of mechanisms activated by comorbid conditions, with allodynia potentially driving pain progression.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pain Medicine
- Headache Disorders
Background:
- Recent advancements in understanding headache pathophysiology.
- Existing classifications of primary headaches may require revision.
- Chronic migraine is a significant clinical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a redefinition of certain primary headache types based on new pathophysiologic knowledge.
- To explore the role of comorbid conditions in the development of chronic migraine.
- To investigate allodynia as a potential mechanism for pain progression in migraine.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent pathophysiologic knowledge in headache disorders.
- Analysis of clinical observations related to chronic migraine and allodynia.
- Pathophysiologic reasoning to link comorbid conditions to migraine mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Chronic migraine may be understood as a consequence of processes triggered by comorbid conditions.
- Allodynia is identified as a potential key process in the progression of migraine pain in some individuals.
- A framework for redefining primary headaches is suggested.
Conclusions:
- Pathophysiologic understanding supports a redefinition of some primary headaches.
- Comorbid conditions play a crucial role in the development of chronic migraine.
- Allodynia is a significant factor in migraine pain progression, warranting further investigation.
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