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Headaches in children and adolescents
1Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH 44195-5045.
The Clinical Journal of Pain
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Diagnosing childhood headaches requires a systematic approach. A detailed patient history, physical examination, and targeted lab tests are crucial for differentiating organic from functional headache causes in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Clinical Diagnostics
Background:
- Headaches (HA) are common in children and adolescents.
- Differentiating organic (symptomatic) from functional (non-symptomatic) HA can be challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnosis and management of various headache syndromes in pediatric populations.
- To provide guidance on differentiating organic from functional headaches.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of diagnostic and management strategies for pediatric headaches.
- Emphasis on clinical history and physical examination.
- Guidance on the judicious use of laboratory tests.
Main Results:
- A thorough history and examination are paramount in HA diagnosis.
- Selected laboratory tests aid in differential diagnosis.
- Systematic evaluation helps determine the nature of pediatric HA.
Conclusions:
- Effective diagnosis of pediatric headaches relies on a structured clinical approach.
- Clinical assessment, supported by appropriate investigations, is key to accurate HA diagnosis in children and adolescents.