The relationship between migraine and atopic disorders-the contribution of pulmonary function tests and immunological screening.

ABSTRACT

This cross-sectional clinical study was conducted in order to explore the relationship between atopic disorders and migraine. We evaluated 186 consecutive patients with migraine. Patients with a history of atopic disorders were compared with the others during headache-free intervals, for their headache characteristics, pulmonary test (PFT) performances and immunological screenings, through appropriate statistical methods. Of the patients with migraine, 77 (41.4%) reported at least one atopic disorder. PFT screening showed a general decreased pulmonary capacity and an important correlation between a positive history of atopic disorders and both increased eosinophil and IgE levels in headache-free periods. It should be discussed whether screening with PFT or immunological tests helps in early detection of progressive lung disease which might develop in these patients.