Migraine: the platelet hypothesis after 10 years.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Hematology
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• The platelet hypothesis proposes migraine originates from blood abnormalities.
• This hypothesis was first introduced in 1978.
• It offers a potential explanation for various migraine symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the foundational evidence for the platelet hypothesis of migraine.
• To examine how platelet abnormalities could explain migraine's diverse clinical features.
• To present findings from recent research supporting the platelet hypothesis.

Main Methods:

• Review of the original proposal and supporting arguments.
• Analysis of the literature on platelet composition and function in migraineurs.
• Synthesis of findings from independent research conducted over the past decade.

Main Results:

• The platelet hypothesis provides a coherent framework for understanding migraine.
• Extensive research over ten years has yielded data consistent with platelet dysfunction in migraine.
• Independent investigations corroborate the role of platelets in migraine pathophysiology.

Conclusions:

• The platelet hypothesis remains a compelling explanation for migraine.
• Further research into platelet behavior is crucial for understanding migraine.
• This perspective reframes migraine as a disorder with significant vascular and hematological components.