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SPECT and TCD studies in cluster headache patients
J Afra1, C Ertsey, H Jelencsik
1Department of Neurology, Semmelweis Medical University, Budapest, Hungary.
Functional Neurology
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Cluster headache attacks may involve secondary changes in cerebral blood flow. Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and middle cerebral artery (MCA) velocity were measured using SPECT and TCD ultrasound.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Medical Imaging
- Neurophysiology
Background:
- Cluster headache is a debilitating neurological disorder characterized by severe unilateral head pain.
- Understanding the underlying pathophysiology of cluster headache, particularly changes in cerebral circulation, is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and middle cerebral artery (MCA) blood flow velocity during cluster headache attacks.
- To determine if observed changes in cerebral circulation are primary or secondary to the headache episode.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Tc99m-HMPAO single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to assess rCBF.
- Employed transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound to measure MCA blood flow velocity.
- Evaluated 19 cluster headache patients during symptomatic attacks and symptom-free periods.
Main Results:
- Six patients exhibited moderate frontal hyperperfusion, while two showed frontal hypoperfusion during attacks.
- No significant rCBF changes were observed in seven patients.
- A significant decrease in MCA mean flow velocity was noted on the symptomatic side during attacks compared to headache-free states.
Conclusions:
- Cerebral blood flow alterations during cluster headache attacks may be secondary phenomena.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms of cerebrovascular changes in cluster headache.
