Cervicogenic headache - How to recognize and treat.

Cervicogenic headache, described almost 100 years ago, only had its clinical awakening at the end of the century with the work of Professor Sjaastad. Its classic definition is the induction of trigeminal symptoms from cervical disorders, thanks to trigeminocervical convergence mechanisms. For this reason, it can manifest several features typical of migraine, leading to diagnostic errors. Classically, subjects complain of fixed unilateral headaches, with cervical onset and trigeminal irradiation, associated with reduced neck mobility and flexion strength. The headache is mild to moderate, described as pulsatile or compressive, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, photophobia, phonophobia, and may present autonomic symptoms and dizziness. The pain duration varies from one day to weeks, and its frequency is unpredictable. A history of whiplash injury is common. The differential diagnosis encompasses migraine and tension-type headache. Management includes physiotherapy rehabilitation, anesthetic blocks, and selectively surgical procedures. In this article, all these aspects were extensively covered.

Clinical characteristics of headaches in an urban Mennonite group in South Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Genetic variants play a pathophysiological role in headaches, especially in migraine. The Mennonite group (MG) has been geographically and genetically isolated throughout its history, harboring a distinctive distribution of diseases. OBJECTIVE: To determine the characteristics of headaches in a group with direct Mennonite ancestry contrasting with other urban community members (control group [CG]). METHODS: Subjects with headaches were asked to complete a questionnaire covering: the type of headache, presence of aura, frequency and duration of attacks, pain location and severity, analgesic consumption, premonitory and postdromic manifestations, Depressive Thoughts Scale, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), General Anxiety Disorder-7, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Migraine Disability Assessment, and Composite Autonomic System Score. RESULTS: We included 103 participants (CG: 45, Mennonite group [MG]: 58). Migraine was the most common headache (CG: 91.1%; MG: 81.0%; p = 0.172), followed by tension-type headache (CG: 8.9%; MG: 15.5%; p = 0.381). Aura was identified by 44.4% and 39.7% in the CG and MG, respectively (p = 0.689). The groups differed only concerning the frequency of retro-orbital pain (CG: 55.6%; MG: 32.8%; p = 0.027), PHQ-9 (CG: median 7, range 0 to 22; MG: median 5, range 0 to 19; p = 0.031) and ESS (CG: median 0, range 0 to 270; MG: median 0, range 0 to 108; p = 0.048) scores. CONCLUSION: There were no major differences in the prevalence and clinical characterization of headaches between the MG and the CG. However, the latter showed more diffuse pain, sleepiness, and depressive symptoms. Specific genetic or epigenetic variants in Mennonite descendants might account for these differences.

ANTECEDENTES: Variantes genéticas desempenham um papel fisiopatológico nas cefaleias, especialmente na migrânea. O grupo menonita (GM) tem estado geográfica e geneticamente isolado ao longo de sua história, abrigando uma distribuição distinta de doenças. OBJETIVO: Determinar as características das cefaleias em um grupo com ascendência menonita direta, comparando-as com as de outros membros da comunidade urbana (grupo controle [GC]). MéTODOS: Participantes com cefaleia foram convidados a preencher um questionário abrangendo: tipo de cefaleia; presença de aura; frequência e duração dos ataques; localização e gravidade da dor; consumo de analgésicos; manifestações premonitórias e posdrômicas; Escala de Pensamentos Depressivos; Escala de Sonolência de Epworth (ESS); Transtorno de Ansiedade Geral-7 (GAD-7); Questionário de Saúde do Paciente-9 (PHQ-9); Avaliação de Incapacidade da Migrânea (MIDAS) e Escore do Sistema Autônomo Composto (COMPASS-31). RESULTADOS: Incluímos 103 participantes (GC: 45, GM: 58). A migrânea foi a cefaleia mais frequente (GC: 91,1%; GM: 81,0%; p = 0,172), seguida pela cefaleia tensional (GC: 8,9%; GM: 15,5%; p = 0,381). Aura foi identificada por 44,4% e 39,7% nos GC e GM, respectivamente (p = 0,689). Os grupos diferiram apenas com relação à frequência de dor retro-orbitária (GC: 55,6%; GM: 32,8%; p = 0,027), PHQ-9 (GC: mediana 7, amplitude 0 a 22; GM: mediana 5, amplitude 0 a 19; p = 0,031) e ESS (GC: mediana 0, amplitude 0 a 270; GM: mediana 0, amplitude 0 a 108; p = 0,048). CONCLUSãO: Não houve diferenças significativas na prevalência e caracterização clínica das cefaleias nos GM e GC. Entretanto, o último grupo mostrou mais dor difusa, sonolência e sintomas depressivos. Variantes genéticas ou epigenéticas específicas em descendentes de menonitas podem justificar tais diferenças.

Clinical characteristics of headaches in an urban Mennonite group in South Brazil / Características clínicas das cefaleias em um grupo menonita urbano do sul do Brasil

Abstract Background Genetic variants play a pathophysiological role in headaches, especially in migraine. The Mennonite group (MG) has been geographically and genetically isolated throughout its history, harboring a distinctive distribution of diseases. Objective To determine the characteristics of headaches in a group with direct Mennonite ancestry contrasting with other urban community members (control group [CG]). Methods Subjects with headaches were asked to complete a questionnaire covering: the type of headache, presence of aura, frequency and duration of attacks, pain location and severity, analgesic consumption, premonitory and postdromic manifestations, Depressive Thoughts Scale, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), General Anxiety Disorder-7, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Migraine Disability Assessment, and Composite Autonomic System Score. Results We included 103 participants (CG: 45, Mennonite group [MG]: 58). Migraine was the most common headache (CG: 91.1%; MG: 81.0%; p = 0.172), followed by tension-type headache (CG: 8.9%; MG: 15.5%; p = 0.381). Aura was identified by 44.4% and 39.7% in the CG and MG, respectively (p = 0.689). The groups differed only concerning the frequency of retro-orbital pain (CG: 55.6%; MG: 32.8%; p = 0.027), PHQ-9 (CG: median 7, range 0 to 22; MG: median 5, range 0 to 19; p = 0.031) and ESS (CG: median 0, range 0 to 270; MG: median 0, range 0 to 108; p = 0.048) scores. Conclusion There were no major differences in the prevalence and clinical characterization of headaches between the MG and the CG. However, the latter showed more diffuse pain, sleepiness, and depressive symptoms. Specific genetic or epigenetic variants in Mennonite descendants might account for these differences.

Resumo Antecedentes Variantes genéticas desempenham um papel fisiopatológico nas cefaleias, especialmente na migrânea. O grupo menonita (GM) tem estado geográfica e geneticamente isolado ao longo de sua história, abrigando uma distribuição distinta de doenças. Objetivo Determinar as características das cefaleias em um grupo com ascendência menonita direta, comparando-as com as de outros membros da comunidade urbana (grupo controle [GC]). Métodos Participantes com cefaleia foram convidados a preencher um questionário abrangendo: tipo de cefaleia; presença de aura; frequência e duração dos ataques; localização e gravidade da dor; consumo de analgésicos; manifestações premonitórias e posdrômicas; Escala de Pensamentos Depressivos; Escala de Sonolência de Epworth (ESS); Transtorno de Ansiedade Geral-7 (GAD-7); Questionário de Saúde do Paciente-9 (PHQ-9); Avaliação de Incapacidade da Migrânea (MIDAS) e Escore do Sistema Autônomo Composto (COMPASS-31). Resultados Incluímos 103 participantes (GC: 45, GM: 58). A migrânea foi a cefaleia mais frequente (GC: 91,1%; GM: 81,0%; p = 0,172), seguida pela cefaleia tensional (GC: 8,9%; GM: 15,5%; p = 0,381). Aura foi identificada por 44,4% e 39,7% nos GC e GM, respectivamente (p = 0,689). Os grupos diferiram apenas com relação à frequência de dor retro-orbitária (GC: 55,6%; GM: 32,8%; p = 0,027), PHQ-9 (GC: mediana 7, amplitude 0 a 22; GM: mediana 5, amplitude 0 a 19; p = 0,031) e ESS (GC: mediana 0, amplitude 0 a 270; GM: mediana 0, amplitude 0 a 108; p = 0,048). Conclusão Não houve diferenças significativas na prevalência e caracterização clínica das cefaleias nos GM e GC. Entretanto, o último grupo mostrou mais dor difusa, sonolência e sintomas depressivos. Variantes genéticas ou epigenéticas específicas em descendentes de menonitas podem justificar tais diferenças.

Consensus of the Brazilian Headache Society (SBCe) for prophylactic treatment of episodic migraine: part II.

BACKGROUND: Migraine affects 1 billion people worldwide and > 30 million Brazilians; besides, it is an underdiagnosed and undertreated disorder. OBJECTIVE: The need to disseminate knowledge about the prophylactic treatment of migraine is known, so the Brazilian Headache Society (SBCe, in the Portuguese acronym) appointed a committee of authors with the objective of establishing a consensus with recommendations on the prophylactic treatment of episodic migraine based on articles from the world literature as well as from personal experience. METHODS: Meetings were held entirely online, with the participation of 12 groups that reviewed and wrote about the pharmacological categories of drugs and, at the end, met to read and finish the document. The drug classes studied in part II of this Consensus were: antihypertensives, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, other drugs, and rational polytherapy. RESULTS: From this list of drugs, only candesartan has been established as effective in controlling episodic migraine. Flunarizine, venlafaxine, duloxetine, and pizotifen were defined as likely to be effective, while lisinopril, enalapril, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, quetiapine, atorvastatin, simvastatin, cyproheptadine, and melatonin were possibly effective in prophylaxis of the disease. CONCLUSIONS: Despite an effort by the scientific community to find really effective drugs in the treatment of migraine, given the large number of drugs tested for this purpose, we still have few therapeutic options.

ANTECEDENTES: Migrânea afeta um bilhão de pessoas em todo o mundo e mais de 30 milhões de brasileiros; além disso, é um distúrbio subdiagnosticado e subtratado. OBJETIVO: Sabe-se sobre a necessidade de difundir o conhecimento sobre o tratamento profilático da migrânea; por isso, a Sociedade Brasileira de Cefaleias (SBCe) nomeou um comitê de autores com o objetivo de estabelecer um consenso com recomendações sobre o tratamento profilático da migrânea episódica com base em artigos da literatura mundial, assim como da experiência pessoal. MéTODOS: As reuniões foram realizadas inteiramente online, com a participação de 12 grupos que revisaram e escreveram sobre as categorias farmacológicas dos medicamentos e, ao final, reuniram-se para a leitura e conclusão do documento. As classes de medicamentos estudadas na parte II deste Consenso foram: anti-hipertensivos, inibidores seletivos de recaptação de serotonina, inibidores de recaptação de serotonina e noradrenalina, bloqueadores dos canais de cálcio, outros medicamentos e politerapia racional. RESULTADOS: Desta lista de medicamentos, apenas o candesartan foi estabelecido como eficaz no controle da migrânea episódica. Flunarizina, venlafaxina, duloxetina e pizotifeno foram definidos como provavelmente eficazes, enquanto lisinopril, enalapril, escitalopram, fluvoxamina, quetiapina, atorvastatina, sinvastatina, ciproheptadina e melatonina foram possivelmente eficazes na profilaxia da doença. CONCLUSõES: Apesar do esforço da comunidade científica em encontrar medicamentos realmente eficazes no tratamento da migrânea, dado o grande número de medicamentos testados para este fim, ainda dispomos de poucas opções terapêuticas.

Consensus of the Brazilian Headache Society (SBCe) for the Prophylactic Treatment of Episodic Migraine: part I.

The Brazilian Headache Society (Sociedade Brasileira de Cefaleia, SBCe, in Portuguese) nominated a Committee of Authors with the aim of establishing a consensus with recommendations regarding prophylactic treatment for episodic migraine based on articles published in the worldwide literature, as well as personal experience. Migraine affects 1 billion people around the world and more than 30 million Brazilians. In addition, it is an underdiagnosed and undertreated disorder. It is well known within the medical community of neurologists, and especially among headache specialists, that there is a need to disseminate knowledge about prophylactic treatment for migraine. For this purpose, together with the need for drug updates and to expand knowledge of the disease itself (frequency, intensity, duration, impact and perhaps the progression of migraine), this Consensus was developed, following a full online methodology, by 12 groups who reviewed and wrote about the pharmacological categories of the drugs used and, at the end of the process, met to read and establish conclusions for this document. The drug classes studied were: anticonvulsants, tricyclic antidepressants, monoclonal anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide (anti-CGRP) antibodies, beta-blockers, antihypertensives, calcium channel inhibitors, other antidepressants (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, SSRIs, and dual-action antidepressants), other drugs, and polytherapy. Hormonal treatment and anti-inflammatories and triptans in minimum prophylaxis schemes (miniprophylaxis) will be covered in a specific chapter. The drug classes studied for part I of the Consensus were: anticonvulsants, tricyclic antidepressants, monoclonal anti-CGRP antibodies, and beta-blockers.

A Sociedade Brasileira de Cefaleia (SBCe) nomeou um Comitê de Autores com o objetivo de estabelecer um consenso com recomendações sobre o tratamento profilático da enxaqueca episódica com base em artigos da literatura mundial e da experiência pessoal. A enxaqueca é um distúrbio subdiagnosticado e subtratado que acomete um bilhão de pessoas no mundo e mais de 30 milhões de brasileiros. É conhecido na comunidade médica de neurologistas e, sobretudo, dos especialistas em cefaleia, a necessidade de se divulgar o conhecimento sobre o tratamento profilático da enxaqueca. Com esta finalidade, aliada às necessidades de atualizações de drogas e de se aumentar o conhecimento sobre a doença em si (frequência, intensidade, duração, impacto e talvez a progressão da enxaqueca), foi elaborado este Consenso, com metodologia totalmente on-line, por 12 grupos que revisaram e escreveram sobre as categorias farmacológicas das drogas e, ao final, reuniram-se para a leitura e conclusão do documento. As classes de drogas estudadas para este Consenso foram: anticonvulsivantes, antidepressivos tricíclicos, anticorpos monoclonais do antipeptídeo relacionado ao gene da calcitonina (peptídeo relacionado ao gene da calcitonina ­ anti-CGRP), betabloqueadores, anti-hipertensivos, inibidores dos canais de cálcio, outros antidepressivos (inibidores seletivos de recaptação de serotonina, ISRSs, e antidepressivos de ação dual), outras drogas, e politerapia. O tratamento hormonal, bem como anti-inflamatórios e triptanas em esquema de profilaxia mínima (miniprofilaxia), será abordado em um capítulo próprio. As classes de drogas estudadas na parte I do Consenso foram: anticonvulsivantes, antidepressivos tricíclicos, anticorpos monoclonais anti-CGRP, e betabloqueadores.

Consensus of the Brazilian Headache Society (SBCe) for prophylactic treatment of episodic migraine: part II / Consenso da Sociedade Brasileira de Cefaleia (SBCe) para o tratamento profilático da migrânea episódica: parte II

Abstract Background Migraine affects 1 billion people worldwide and > 30 million Brazilians; besides, it is an underdiagnosed and undertreated disorder. Objective The need to disseminate knowledge about the prophylactic treatment of migraine is known, so the Brazilian Headache Society (SBCe, in the Portuguese acronym) appointed a committee of authors with the objective of establishing a consensus with recommendations on the prophylactic treatment of episodic migraine based on articles from the world literature as well as from personal experience. Methods Meetings were held entirely online, with the participation of 12 groups that reviewed and wrote about the pharmacological categories of drugs and, at the end, met to read and finish the document. The drug classes studied in part II of this Consensus were: antihypertensives, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, other drugs, and rational polytherapy. Results From this list of drugs, only candesartan has been established as effective in controlling episodic migraine. Flunarizine, venlafaxine, duloxetine, and pizotifen were defined as likely to be effective, while lisinopril, enalapril, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, quetiapine, atorvastatin, simvastatin, cyproheptadine, and melatonin were possibly effective in prophylaxis of the disease. Conclusions Despite an effort by the scientific community to find really effective drugs in the treatment of migraine, given the large number of drugs tested for this purpose, we still have few therapeutic options.

Resumo Antecedentes Migrânea afeta um bilhão de pessoas em todo o mundo e mais de 30 milhões de brasileiros; além disso, é um distúrbio subdiagnosticado e subtratado. Objetivo Sabe-se sobre a necessidade de difundir o conhecimento sobre o tratamento profilático da migrânea; por isso, a Sociedade Brasileira de Cefaleias (SBCe) nomeou um comitê de autores com o objetivo de estabelecer um consenso com recomendações sobre o tratamento profilático da migrânea episódica com base em artigos da literatura mundial, assim como da experiência pessoal. Métodos As reuniões foram realizadas inteiramente online, com a participação de 12 grupos que revisaram e escreveram sobre as categorias farmacológicas dos medicamentos e, ao final, reuniram-se para a leitura e conclusão do documento. As classes de medicamentos estudadas na parte II deste Consenso foram: anti-hipertensivos, inibidores seletivos de recaptação de serotonina, inibidores de recaptação de serotonina e noradrenalina, bloqueadores dos canais de cálcio, outros medicamentos e politerapia racional. Resultados Desta lista de medicamentos, apenas o candesartan foi estabelecido como eficaz no controle da migrânea episódica. Flunarizina, venlafaxina, duloxetina e pizotifeno foram definidos como provavelmente eficazes, enquanto lisinopril, enalapril, escitalopram, fluvoxamina, quetiapina, atorvastatina, sinvastatina, ciproheptadina e melatonina foram possivelmente eficazes na profilaxia da doença. Conclusões Apesar do esforço da comunidade científica em encontrarmedicamentos realmente eficazes no tratamento da migrânea, dado o grande número de medicamentos testados para este fim, ainda dispomos de poucas opções terapêuticas.

Consensus of the Brazilian Headache Society (SBCe) for the Prophylactic Treatment of Episodic Migraine: part I / Consenso da Sociedadade Brasileira de Cefaleia (SBCe) para o tratamento profilático da migrânea episódica: parte I

Abstract The Brazilian Headache Society (Sociedade Brasileira de Cefaleia, SBCe, in Portuguese) nominated a Committee of Authors with the aim of establishing a consensus with recommendations regarding prophylactic treatment for episodic migraine based on articles published in the worldwide literature, as well as personal experience. Migraine affects 1 billion people around the world and more than 30 million Brazilians. In addition, it is an underdiagnosed and undertreated disorder. It is well known within the medical community of neurologists, and especially among headache specialists, that there is a need to disseminate knowledge about prophylactic treatment for migraine. For this purpose, together with the need for drug updates and to expand knowledge of the disease itself (frequency, intensity, duration, impact and perhaps the progression of migraine), this Consensus was developed, following a full online methodology, by 12 groups who reviewed and wrote about the pharmacological categories of the drugs used and, at the end of the process, met to read and establish conclusions for this document. The drug classes studied were: anticonvulsants, tricyclic antidepressants, monoclonal anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide (anti-CGRP) antibodies, beta-blockers, antihypertensives, calcium channel inhibitors, other antidepressants (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, SSRIs, and dual-action antidepressants), other drugs, and polytherapy. Hormonal treatment and anti-inflammatories and triptans in minimum prophylaxis schemes (miniprophylaxis) will be covered in a specific chapter. The drug classes studied for part I of the Consensus were: anticonvulsants, tricyclic antidepressants, monoclonal anti-CGRP antibodies, and beta-blockers.

Resumo A Sociedade Brasileira de Cefaleia (SBCe) nomeou um Comitê de Autores com o objetivo de estabelecer um consenso com recomendações sobre o tratamento profilático da enxaqueca episódica com base em artigos da literatura mundial e da experiência pessoal. A enxaqueca é um distúrbio subdiagnosticado e subtratado que acomete um bilhão de pessoas no mundo e mais de 30 milhões de brasileiros. É conhecido na comunidade médica de neurologistas e, sobretudo, dos especialistas em cefaleia, a necessidade de se divulgar o conhecimento sobre o tratamento profilático da enxaqueca. Com esta finalidade, aliada às necessidades de atualizações de drogas e de se aumentar o conhecimento sobre a doença em si (frequência, intensidade, duração, impacto e talvez a progressão da enxaqueca), foi elaborado este Consenso, com metodologia totalmente on-line, por 12 grupos que revisaram e escreveram sobre as categorias farmacológicas das drogas e, ao final, reuniram-se para a leitura e conclusão do documento. As classes de drogas estudadas para este Consenso foram: anticonvulsivantes, antidepressivos tricíclicos, anticorpos monoclonais do antipeptídeo relacionado ao gene da calcitonina (peptídeo relacionado ao gene da calcitonina — anti-CGRP), betabloqueadores, anti-hipertensivos, inibidores dos canais de cálcio, outros antidepressivos (inibidores seletivos de recaptação de serotonina, ISRSs, e antidepressivos de ação dual), outras drogas, e politerapia. O tratamento hormonal, bem como anti-inflamatórios e triptanas em esquema de profilaxia mínima (miniprofilaxia), será abordado em um capítulo próprio. As classes de drogas estudadas na parte I do Consenso foram: anticonvulsivantes, antidepressivos tricíclicos, anticorpos monoclonais anti-CGRP, e betabloqueadores.

Prevalence of trigeminocervical convergence mechanisms in episodic and chronic migraine / Prevalência de mecanismos de convergência trigeminocervical na migrânea episódica e crônica

Abstract Background: Migraine pain location and trigeminocervical convergence have limited diagnostic value and have usually been assessed using non-standard verbal descriptors in a small number of centers. Objective: To use non-verbal descriptors of migraine pain location to determine the prevalence of trigeminocervical convergence mechanisms in patients with episodic and chronic migraine. In addition, we explored the factors associated with the presence of convergence. Methods: A multicenter study was carried out. The explicit pain location was explored by asking subjects to indicate, on an electronic form, three points on the anterolateral side and three points on the posterolateral side of the head and neck that represented the common locations of their migraine pain. We evaluated associations of the pain pattern with demographic and psychological features, comorbidities, lifestyle and other headache characteristics. Results: 97 episodic and 113 chronic migraine patients were included. Convergence was present in 116 migraineurs (55%) who indicated dominance of pain in the posterior cervical region. This site was more often involved in the chronic migraine group (21 vs. 33%; p=0.034). The number of migrainous/altered sensitivity symptoms (OR=1.39; 95%CI 1.14-1.71) was associated with convergence independently of the chronification status. In this symptom group, there were statistical associations between convergence and vomiting (p=0.045), tactile allodynia (p<0.001), nuchal rigidity (p<0.001) and movement allodynia (p=0.031). Conclusions: Trigeminocervical convergence is common in migraineurs and, in practice, it might be found frequently in chronic migraineurs. Some features commonly found in this group, such as altered sensitivity symptoms, are associated with this phenomenon.

RESUMO Antecedentes: A localização da dor da migrânea e a convergência trigeminocervical têm valor diagnóstico limitado geralmente sendo avaliadas por meio de descritores verbais não padronizados em um pequeno número de centros. Objetivo: Usar descritores não verbais da localização da dor migranosa para determinar a prevalência de mecanismos de convergência trigeminocervical em pacientes com migrânea episódica e crônica. Além disso, exploramos os fatores associados à presença de convergência. Métodos: Um estudo multicêntrico foi realizado. A localização explícita da dor foi explorada solicitando aos migranosos que indicassem, em um formulário eletrônico, três pontos no lado anterolateral e três pontos no lado posterolateral da cabeça e pescoço representando a localização comum de sua dor migranosa. Avaliamos a associação do padrão de dor com características demográficas e psicológicas, comorbidades, estilo de vida e outras características da cefaleia. Resultados: 97 pacientes com migrânea episódica e 113 com migrânea crônica foram incluídos. A convergência esteve presente em 116 migranosos (55%) que indicaram um predomínio da dor na região cervical posterior. Este local estava mais frequentemente envolvido no grupo migrânea crônica (21 vs. 33%; p=0,034). O número de sintomas de migrânea/sensibilidade alterada (OR=1,39; IC95% 1,14-1,71) foi associado à convergência independentemente do estado de cronificação. Nesse grupo de sintomas, houve associações entre convergência e vômito (p=0,045), alodinia tátil (p<0,001), rigidez de nuca (p<0,001) e alodinia ao movimento (p=0,0031). Conclusões: A convergência trigeminocervical é comum em pacientes com migrânea e, na prática, podemos encontrá-la com frequência em pacientes com migrânea crônica. Algumas características comumente encontradas nesse grupo, como sintomas de sensibilidade alterada, estão associadas a esse fenômeno.

Prevalence of trigeminocervical convergence mechanisms in episodic and chronic migraine.

BACKGROUND: Migraine pain location and trigeminocervical convergence have limited diagnostic value and have usually been assessed using non-standard verbal descriptors in a small number of centers. OBJECTIVE: To use non-verbal descriptors of migraine pain location to determine the prevalence of trigeminocervical convergence mechanisms in patients with episodic and chronic migraine. In addition, we explored the factors associated with the presence of convergence. METHODS: A multicenter study was carried out. The explicit pain location was explored by asking subjects to indicate, on an electronic form, three points on the anterolateral side and three points on the posterolateral side of the head and neck that represented the common locations of their migraine pain. We evaluated associations of the pain pattern with demographic and psychological features, comorbidities, lifestyle and other headache characteristics. RESULTS: 97 episodic and 113 chronic migraine patients were included. Convergence was present in 116 migraineurs (55%) who indicated dominance of pain in the posterior cervical region. This site was more often involved in the chronic migraine group (21 vs. 33%; p=0.034). The number of migrainous/altered sensitivity symptoms (OR=1.39; 95%CI 1.14-1.71) was associated with convergence independently of the chronification status. In this symptom group, there were statistical associations between convergence and vomiting (p=0.045), tactile allodynia (p<0.001), nuchal rigidity (p<0.001) and movement allodynia (p=0.031). CONCLUSIONS: Trigeminocervical convergence is common in migraineurs and, in practice, it might be found frequently in chronic migraineurs. Some features commonly found in this group, such as altered sensitivity symptoms, are associated with this phenomenon.

Treatment of occipital neuralgia using onabotulinum toxin A.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the effectiveness of botulinum toxin in a sample of patients diagnosed with greater occipital nerve neuralgia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-nine patients (28 females, 1 male) were treated for greater occipital nerve neuralgia with onabotulinum toxin type A; the Visual Analog Pain Scale was used to determine pain severity at treatment and again 12 weeks after application. RESULTS: Average doses of onabotulinum toxin type A of 18.66±6.44 U per nerve and 35.96±12.89 U per patient were utilized. Average pain severity among the sample was 9.81±0.89 prior to botulinum toxin application and 3.68±2.31 points (p<0.0001) twelve weeks after application. Pain frequency decreased from 29.93±0.37 to 12.17±11.05 days with pain per month (p<0.0001). Six patients reported absence of pain after application (p=0.023). Dose did not correlate with the degree of clinical response observed, and no side effects were reported. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest onabotulinum toxin type A is a safe and effective treatment alternative for patients suffering from refractory greater occipital nerve neuralgia.

Intervenção para cessação do tabagismo em pacientes internados por AVC / Smoking cessation intervention in hospitalized patients with stroke / Intervención para cesación del tabaquismo en pacientes hospitalizados con accidente cerebrovascular

INTRODUÇÃO: Estudos mostram baixas taxas de abstinência pós-AVC. OBJETIVOS: Descrever o desenvolvimento e apresentar os resultados preliminares de uma intervenção para cessação do tabagismo em pacientes internados com AVC. MÉTODO: Baseado na Teoria Social Cognitiva. Foram incluídos 15 pacientes. Foram analisadas as taxas de abstinência 15 dias após a alta hospitalar, com monoximetria, e, 12 meses depois, por contato telefônico. RESULTADOS: Desenvolvidas cinco cartilhas para o paciente, uma para os familiares e um guia para o profissional de saúde. As taxas de cessação em 15 dias foram de 46,7% (7/15) e, após 12 meses, de 40% (6/15). CONCLUSÕES: Este estudo demonstrou os passos para o desenvolvimento de uma intervenção para cessação de tabagismo em pacientes internados com AVC, e que uma intervenção baseada em teoria e personalizada pode impactar favoravelmente a taxa de cessação após a alta hospitalar.

INTRODUCTION: Studies have shown low post-stroke smoking abstinence rates. OBJECTIVES: To describe the development and present the preliminary results of a smoking cessation intervention in stroke patients. METHOD: Based on Cognitive Social Theory. Fifteen patients were included. Smoking abstinence was analyzed 15 days after hospital discharge, through exhaled carbon monoxide assessment, and 12 months later, by telephone contact. RESULTS: Five patient booklets were developed, one for family members and one guide for the health professional. The 15-day cessation rate was 46.7% (7/15) and, after 12 months, 40% (6/15). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated the steps for developing a smoking cessation intervention in stroke patients and showed that a theory-based and personalized intervention may favorably impact the cessation rate after discharge.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Estudios han demostrado bajas tasas de abstinencia post accidente cerebrovascular. OBJETIVOS: Describir el desarrollo y presentar los resultados preliminares de una intervención para cesación del tabaquismo en pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular. MÉTODO: Basado en la Teoría Social Cognitiva. Se incluyeron 15 pacientes. Las tasas de abstinencia fueron analizadas a los 15 días después del alta hospitalaria, con monoximetría, y a los 12 meses, por contacto telefónico. RESULTADOS: Se desarrollaron cinco folletos para pacientes, uno para miembros de la familia y una guía para el profesional de la salud. Las tasas de cese de 15 días fue del 46,7% (7/15) y, después de 12 meses, del 40% (6/15). CONCLUSIONES: Este estudio demostró los pasos para desarrollar una intervención para dejar de fumar en pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular, y que una intervención basada en la teoría y personalizada puede afectar favorablemente la tasa de cesación después del alta.

Wake-Up Headache Is Associated With Sleep Bruxism.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between the frequency of sleep bruxism and report of morning headaches, and associations with depression and/or anxiety. BACKGROUND: The association between sleep bruxism and headaches in the morning, and between these factors and affective disorders, has been examined in several investigations. Although headache is cited by the International Classification of Sleep Disorders as a symptom associated with sleep bruxism, only a small number of studies have investigated the association between the frequencies of headaches in the morning and bruxism. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted between August 2017 and May 2018 in the municipality of Curitiba, Brazil. It comprised individuals of both sexes, ages between 18 and 65 years, with no restriction of race, skin color, or social group (n = 149). Structured questionnaires were used to survey demographic characteristics, sleep bruxism, depression, and anxiety. Self-reports and clinical examinations were used together to diagnose probable sleep bruxism and assess the frequency of this condition. The presence or absence of morning headaches and their frequency were evaluated using a self-report question. It was applied to people with anxiety and/or depression and to free controls of the general population by a trained dentist. RESULTS: A significant relationship (P Ë‚ .001 - Chi-square test) was found between the frequency of sleep bruxism and morning headaches. Symptoms of depression and anxiety were associated with the presence of headache (P Ë‚ .001 - One way ANOVA), but not with the frequency of sleep bruxism. CONCLUSION: The present study confirms the hypothesis of a direct relationship between the frequency of sleep bruxism and the frequency of morning headaches. It also confirmed a linear association between mean depression scores, mean anxiety scores, and morning headaches.

Trigeminal Neuralgia: Basic and Clinical Aspects.

The trigeminal nerve is the largest of all cranial nerves. It has three branches that provide the main sensory innervation of the anterior two-thirds of the head and face. Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is characterized by sudden, severe, brief, and stabbing recurrent episodes of facial pain in one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve. Pain attacks can occur spontaneously or can be triggered by non-noxious stimuli, such as talking, eating, washing the face, brushing teeth, shaving, a light touch or even a cool breeze. In addition to pain attacks, a proportion of the patients also experience persistent background pain, which along with autonomic signs and prolonged disease duration, represent predictors of worse treatment outcomes. It is now widely accepted that the presence of a neurovascular compression at the trigeminal root entry zone is an anatomic abnormality with a high correlation with classical TN. However, TN may be related to other etiologies, thus presenting different and/or additional features. Since the 1960s, the anticonvulsant carbamazepine is the drug of choice for TN treatment. Although anti-epileptic drugs are commonly used to treat neuropathic pain in general, the efficacy of carbamazepine has been largely limited to TN. Carbamazepine, however, is associated with dose-limiting side-effects, particularly with prolonged usage. Thus, a better understanding and new treatment options are urgently warranted for this rare, but excruciating disease.

Consensus of the Brazilian Headache Society on the treatment of chronic migraine.

Chronic migraine poses a significant personal, social and economic burden and is characterized by headache present on 15 or more days per month for at least three months, with at least eight days of migrainous headache per month. It is frequently associated with analgesic or acute migraine medication overuse and this should not be overlooked. The present consensus was elaborated upon by a group of members of the Brazilian Headache Society in order to describe current evidence and to provide recommendations related to chronic migraine pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatment. Withdrawal strategies in medication overuse headache are also described, as well as treatment risks during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Oral topiramate and onabotulinum toxin A injections are the only treatments granted Class A recommendation, while valproate, gabapentin, and tizanidine received Class B recommendation, along with acupuncture, biofeedback, and mindfulness. The anti-CGRP or anti-CGRPr monoclonal antibodies, still unavailable in Brazil, are promising new drugs already approved elsewhere for migraine prophylactic treatment, the efficacy of which in chronic migraine is still to be definitively proven.

Consensus of the Brazilian Headache Society on the treatment of chronic migraine / Consenso da Sociedade Brasileira de Cefaleia sobre o tratamento da migrânea crônica

ABSTRACT Chronic migraine poses a significant personal, social and economic burden and is characterized by headache present on 15 or more days per month for at least three months, with at least eight days of migrainous headache per month. It is frequently associated with analgesic or acute migraine medication overuse and this should not be overlooked. The present consensus was elaborated upon by a group of members of the Brazilian Headache Society in order to describe current evidence and to provide recommendations related to chronic migraine pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatment. Withdrawal strategies in medication overuse headache are also described, as well as treatment risks during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Oral topiramate and onabotulinum toxin A injections are the only treatments granted Class A recommendation, while valproate, gabapentin, and tizanidine received Class B recommendation, along with acupuncture, biofeedback, and mindfulness. The anti-CGRP or anti-CGRPr monoclonal antibodies, still unavailable in Brazil, are promising new drugs already approved elsewhere for migraine prophylactic treatment, the efficacy of which in chronic migraine is still to be definitively proven.

RESUMO A migrânea (enxaqueca) crônica determina uma carga pessoal, social e econômica significativa e é caracterizada por dor de cabeça presente em quinze ou mais dias por mês por ao menos três meses, com no mínimo oito dias de cefaleia migranosa a cada mês. É frequentemente associada ao uso excessivo de medicação analgésica ou antimigranosa aguda e isso não deve ser negligenciado. Este consenso foi elaborado por um grupo de membros da Sociedade Brasileira de Cefaleia, para descrever as evidências atualmente disponíveis e fornecer recomendações relacionadas ao tratamento farmacológico e não farmacológico da migrânea crônica. Estratégias de retirada na cefaleia por uso excessivo de medicamentos também são descritas, assim como os riscos dos tratamentos durante a gravidez e a amamentação. O topiramato oral e as injeções de toxina onabotulínica A são os únicos tratamentos que receberam a recomendação classe A, enquanto que o valproato, a gabapentina e a tizanidina receberam recomendação classe B, juntamente com acupuntura, biofeedback e mindfulness. Os anticorpos monoclonais anti-CGRP ou anti-CGRPr, ainda não disponíveis no Brasil, são novos fármacos promissores, já aprovados em outros países para o tratamento profilático da migrânea, cuja eficácia na migrânea crônica ainda está por ser definitivamente comprovada.

Driving and visual deficits in stroke patients.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to conduct an exploratory assessment of visual impairment following stroke, and to discuss the possibilities of reintroducing patients to the activity of driving. METHODS: The Useful Field of View test was used to assess visual processing and visual attention. RESULTS: A total of 18 patients were included in the study, and were assigned to either the drive group (n = 9) or the intention group (n = 9). In the drive group, one patient was categorized as moderate-to-high risk; whereas, in the intention group, one patient was categorized as low-to-moderate risk. Additionally, two patients in the intention group were categorized as high risk. The patients did not perceive their visual deficits as a limitation. CONCLUSION: Visual attention is an interference factor in terms of the safe performance of driving after a stroke. All patients showed a high level of interest for the independence provided through being able to drive.

Driving and visual deficits in stroke patients / Direção de automóveis e déficits visuais em pacientes com AVC

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of the present study was to conduct an exploratory assessment of visual impairment following stroke, and to discuss the possibilities of reintroducing patients to the activity of driving. Methods: The Useful Field of View test was used to assess visual processing and visual attention. Results: A total of 18 patients were included in the study, and were assigned to either the drive group (n = 9) or the intention group (n = 9). In the drive group, one patient was categorized as moderate-to-high risk; whereas, in the intention group, one patient was categorized as low-to-moderate risk. Additionally, two patients in the intention group were categorized as high risk. The patients did not perceive their visual deficits as a limitation. Conclusion: Visual attention is an interference factor in terms of the safe performance of driving after a stroke. All patients showed a high level of interest for the independence provided through being able to drive.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objeto deste estudo foi realizar uma avaliação exploratória de déficits visuais decorrentes do AVC e discutir possibilidades de retorno à direção de automóveis. Métodos: Estudo descritivo e observacional. O software UFOV foi utilizado para avaliar o processamento visual e atenção visual. Resultados: Um total de 18 pacientes foram incluídos no estudo, classificados em Grupo Direção - GD (n = 9) e Grupo Pretensão - GP (n = 9). No GD, um paciente foi classificado em moderado a alto risco de acidentes, e um paciente do GP em baixo a moderado risco. Especificamente, no grupo GP dois pacientes foram classificados em alto risco de acidentes. Pacientes não reconhecem os déficits visuais como dificuldades. Conclusão: Atenção visual é um fator de interferência no desempenho seguro da direção após o AVC. Todos os pacientes mostraram alto interesse na independência oferecida pela direção de automóveis.

Análise de custo-efetividade da toxina onabotulínica A no tratamento preventivo da migrânea crônica sob a perspectiva do sistema privado de saúde do Brasil / Cost-effectiveness analysis of onabotulinumtoxinA in the preventive treatment of chronic migraine under the Brazilian private health care system perspective

Objetivo: Avaliar o custo-efetividade da toxina onabotulínica A (TB) versus ausência de tratamento "não tratar" (NT) da migrânea crônica refratária a pelo menos dois medicamentos em um Sistema de Saúde Suplementar. Métodos: Modelo analítico de decisão simulou desfechos e custos em 24 semanas. Os desfechos clínicos foram: dias com cefaleia (DC); dias com cefaleia moderada/severa (DCMS); episódios de cefaleia (EC); dias com migrânea (DM) e episódios de migrânea (EM). Para o braço NT, utilizaram-se os valores basais do placebo. Para o braço TB, utilizaram-se os valores basais aplicando as reduções relacionadas ao uso do tratamento. Os custos incluídos foram custos médicos diretos. Os dados que subsidiaram as análises foram extraídos da literatura. Avaliou-se uma aplicação de TB (155U) a cada 12 semanas, totalizando duas aplicações em 24 semanas. Custos foram extraídos de bases oficiais do Brasil. Considerou-se taxa de descontinuação de 3,8% para TB na semana 24. Análises de sensibilidade probabilística (ASP) e univariada (ASU) foram realizadas para o desfecho DM. Resultados: O uso de TB proporcionou redução de 52,42% nos DC; 47,97% nos DCMS; 37,60% nos EC; 50,49% nos DM; 35,68% nos EM e uma redução de R$ 1.193 com consulta médica e hospitalização. Houve incremento de R$ 8.646 com aplicação da TB, resultando numa Razão de Custo-Efetividade Incremental (RCEI) de R$ 142,16/DC; R$ 155,35/DCMS; R$ 198,22/EC; R$ 147,61/DM e R$ 208,85/EM. A ASP e ASU comprovaram os resultados do caso base. Conclusão: Uso de TB proporciona redução dos desfechos clínicos, variando de 44% a 49%, além de redução de 54% a 60% nos custos com visitas médicas e hospitalização.

Objective: To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of onabotulinumtoxinA (OT) versus "no treatment" (NT) of chronic refractory migraine to at least two drugs in the Supplementary Brazilian Health Care System. Methods: An analytical decision model simulated outcomes and costs at 24 weeks. Clinical outcomes were: days with headache (DH); days with moderate/severe headache (DMSH); headache episodes (HE); days with migraine (DM) and episodes of migraine (EM). For the NT arm, the baseline values of placebo were used. For the OT arm, baseline values were used as reductions related to treatment use. Costs included were direct medical costs. The data that supported the analyzes were extracted from the literature. One OT application (155U) was evaluated every 12 weeks totaling 2 applications in 24 weeks. Costs were extracted from Brazilian official databases. A 3.8% discontinuation rate was considered for OT at week 24. Probabilistic (PSA) and univariate (USA) sensitivity analyzes were performed for the DM outcome. Results: The use of OT provided a reduction of 52.42% in DH; 47.97% in DMSH; 37.60% in HE; 50.49% in DM; 35.68% in EM and a reduction of R$ 1,193 with medical visits and hospitalization. There was an increase of R$ 8,646 with OT application; resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of R$ 142.16/DH; R$ 155.35/DMSH; R$ 198.22/HE; R$ 147.61/DM and R$ 208.85/EM. PSA and USA proved the base case results. Conclusion: Use of OT provides a reduction in clinical outcomes ranging from 44% to 49%, as well as a reduction of 54% to 60% in costs with medical visits and hospitalization.

Botulinum neurotoxin type-A when utilized in animals with trigeminal sensitization induced a antinociceptive effect.

METHOD: Neuropathic pain was induced by surgical constriction of the infraorbital nerve in rats. A control group underwent a sham procedure consisting of surgical exposure of the nerve. Subgroups of each group received either BoNT/A or isotonic saline solution. The clinical response was assessed with the -20°C test. Animals that underwent nerve constriction developed sensitization; the sham group did not. RESULTS: The sensitization was reversed by BoNT/A treatment evident 24 hours following application. Pronociceptive effect was observed in the sham group following BoNT/A. CONCLUSION: BoNT/A has an antinociceptive effect in sensitized animals and a pronociceptive effect in non-sensitized animals.