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Acephalgic migraines of childhood
1Department of Neurology/Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Pediatric Neurology
|April 1, 1996
Summary
Migraine aura without headache, or acephalgic migraines, is a recognized condition in children. This study identified its prevalence and characteristics in pediatric patients, finding it to be a benign syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Headache Disorders
Background:
- Migraine aura without headache (acephalgic migraines) is documented in adults.
- Limited data exists on the prevalence and characteristics of acephalgic migraines in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of migraine aura without headache in a pediatric population.
- To establish diagnostic criteria for this condition in children.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of a computerized database of pediatric patients over a 4-year period.
- Utilized International Headache Society diagnostic criteria for migraine aura without headache.
- Identified 14 pediatric patients meeting the criteria.
Main Results:
- Acephalgic migraines represented 2% of primary migraine diagnoses in pediatric patients.
- Onset ranged from 5-12 years (mean 8 years); 9/14 were female with a strong family history.
- Common aura symptoms included photopsias and scintillating scotomas; neurological exams and investigations were noncontributory.
Conclusions:
- Migraine aura without headache is a recognizable and benign migraine syndrome in late childhood.
- This condition presents distinct aura characteristics in children compared to adults.
- Further research is warranted to understand the long-term implications and management of pediatric acephalgic migraines.