Chronic headache syndromes

This article reviews the changing perspectives on migraine and other chronic headache syndromes. It addresses the current interest in "central" (brain) pathogenetic mechanisms and various aspects of the diagnostic evaluation, classification, and treatment. Specific treatment regimens are detailed, including approaches to overuse of medication and dependency in patients with headache. The use of inpatient treatment units for refractory syndromes are considered. Post-traumatic headache conditions and those arising as a consequence of dental pathology are addressed.