Cluster headache

PubMed, the Internet portal of biomedical and life sciences literature, indexed an interesting article, entitled Cluster headache (Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases 2008;3:20). Authors are Elizabeth Leroux and Anne Ducros. Cluster headache (CH) is a primary headache disease characterized by recurrent short-lasting attacks (15 to 180 minutes) of excruciating unilateral periorbital pain accompanied by ipsilateral autonomic signs (lacrimation, nasal congestion, ptosis, miosis, lid edema, redness of the eye). It affects young adults, predominantly males. Acute treatment is based on subcutaneous administration of sumatriptan and high-flow oxygen. Verapamil, lithium, methysergide, prednisone, greater occipital nerve blocks and topiramate may be used for prophylaxis. To access the full text of the article, click here.