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Tension-type headache introduction and diagnostic criteria
Peter Kropp1, Georg Egli, Peter S Sándor
1Institute of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Center of Nervous Diseases, Medical Faculty, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany. peter.kropp@med.uni-rostock.de
Handbook of Clinical Neurology
|September 7, 2010
Summary
Tension-type headache is the most common primary headache. Distinguishing between episodic and chronic forms is crucial, as the chronic subtype significantly impacts quality of life and may indicate neurobiological factors.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Headache Medicine
Background:
- Tension-type headache (TTH) is the most prevalent primary headache disorder.
- Lifetime prevalence estimates for TTH range widely from 35% to 80% of the population.
- A critical distinction exists between episodic and chronic TTH, impacting management and prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the diagnostic criteria for tension-type headache.
- To contextualize these criteria within the revised International Classification of Headache Disorder (ICHD).
- To highlight the clinical significance of differentiating TTH subtypes.
Main Methods:
- Review of diagnostic criteria from the International Headache Society's ICHD.
- Analysis of the clinical implications of TTH classification.
- Consideration of comorbidities and differential diagnoses.
Main Results:
- TTH is categorized into episodic (infrequent and frequent) and chronic forms.
- Chronic TTH is associated with neurobiological underpinnings, reduced quality of life, and high disability.
- Chronic TTH frequently co-occurs with anxiety and depressive disorders.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis of TTH subtypes is essential for effective patient care.
- Frequent episodic TTH carries a risk of transformation into the chronic form.
- Differential diagnosis must exclude migraine and medication overuse headache.
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