Oculo-vestibular signs in experimentally induced migraine attacks: an exploratory analysis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Ophthalmology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Vestibular symptoms, such as vertigo, are frequently reported in migraine patients.
• Vestibular migraine is recognized as a potential migraine subtype needing further research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the presence of oculo-vestibular signs (OVSs) during experimentally induced migraine attacks.
• To explore the utility of sublingual nitroglycerin (NTG) in assessing vestibular dysfunction in migraine.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory analysis involving 24 episodic migraine patients and 19 healthy controls.
• Sublingual nitroglycerin (0.9 mg) was administered to induce migraine-like attacks.
• Clinical examinations were conducted at baseline, during induced attacks, and post-administration.

Main Results:

• Oculo-vestibular signs (OVSs) were observed in 23.1% of migraine patients who developed an induced migraine attack.
• No OVSs were detected in migraine patients without an induced attack or in healthy controls.
• Nitroglycerin administration showed potential in eliciting OVSs in a subset of migraineurs.

Conclusions:

• The findings suggest nitroglycerin (NTG) may be a valuable tool for investigating vestibular dysfunction in migraine patients.
• Further well-powered studies are warranted to confirm these preliminary results and understand the role of vestibular dysfunction in migraine pathophysiology.