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Cluster headache: Horton's cephalalgia revisited
J E Mendizabal1, E Umaña, R M Zweifler
1University of South Alabama Headache Center and the Department of Neurology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile 36617, USA.
Southern Medical Journal
|July 22, 1998
Summary
Cluster headache (CH) is a common primary headache disorder affecting middle-aged men, characterized by severe facial pain and autonomic symptoms. Current research explores its complex pathophysiology and modern treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Headache Medicine
Background:
- Cluster headache (CH) is a prevalent primary headache disorder.
- CH was not fully characterized until the 21st century.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on cluster headache (CH) and related cephalalgias.
- To present the latest evidence on CH pathophysiology and management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pertinent studies on CH and related cephalalgias.
Main Results:
- CH typically affects middle-aged men with cyclic patterns.
- Paroxysms involve excruciating facial pain (15-180 minutes) with autonomic symptoms (e.g., lacrimation, rhinorrhea, Horner's syndrome).
- Pathophysiology may involve autonomic, immunologic, and vascular factors.
Conclusions:
- Despite incomplete understanding of pathophysiology, recent evidence on anatomic and biochemical basis is presented.
- An update on modern CH management, including abortive, prophylactic, and invasive treatments, is provided.