Cluster headache with trigeminal neuralgia. An uncommon association that may be more than coincidental

Cluster headache and trigeminal neuralgia (tic douloureux) share a common pattern of exacerbation and remission of pain that is described in similar terms by patients. Although the treatment of these conditions is markedly different, the results of adequate prophylaxis can be extremely impressive in both. The physician who treats headache patients should be aware of the common characteristics of each condition and of the possibility of their concomitant occurrence.