[Pathophysiology of cluster headache]. / Physiopathologie de l'algie vasculaire de la face (AVF).

ABSTRACT

The aetiology of cluster headache is partially unknown. Three areas are involved in the pathogenesis of cluster headache the trigeminal nociceptive pathways, the autonomic system and the hypothalamus. The cluster headache attack involves activation of the trigeminal autonomic reflex. A dysfunction located in posterior hypothalamic gray matter is probably pivotal in the process. There is a probable association between smoke exposure, a possible genetic predisposition and the development of cluster headache.