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Van Houtte J, Vandenbussche N, Derom E, Schoenen J, Versijpt J, Paemeleire K. Oxygen as an abortive therapy in cluster headache: a narrative review and clinical practice aspects. Acta Neurol Belg 2024; 124:1225-1231. [PMID: 38498266 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-024-02506-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Cluster headache (International Classification of Headache Disorders third edition, ICHD-3 3.1) is a primary headache disorder affecting around 0.12% of individuals. It is characterized by severe headache attacks causing significant negative impact on the lives of patients. While administration of 100% oxygen is considered to be the first-choice acute treatment, undertreatment also exists. Reasons for undertreatment may entail problems with the correct prescription of oxygen, reimbursement issues or the practical implementation of home oxygen therapy. The aim of this manuscript is to review the scientific evidence on oxygen therapy for cluster headache and provide a practical guidance for both physicians and patients to optimize its use in an acute setting. The current evidence of the administration of 100% oxygen as a safe and effective treatment for cluster headache is strong. Based on several clinical trials and surveys, the recommended flow rates range between 12 and 15 L/min via a non-rebreathing mask, for at least fifteen minutes. The frequency of cluster headache attacks and thus the need for acute treatment can be very high. Fortunately, the Belgian social security system provides a full and lifetime reimbursement of oxygen therapy for cluster headache if the diagnosis and the need for this therapy has been certified by a neurologist, neurosurgeon or neuropsychiatrist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Van Houtte
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Nicolas Vandenbussche
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Eric Derom
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jean Schoenen
- Headache Research Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Jan Versijpt
- Department of Neurology, Brussels University Hospital, Jette, Belgium
| | - Koen Paemeleire
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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Petersen AS, Lund N, Goadsby PJ, Belin AC, Wang SJ, Fronczek R, Burish M, Cho SJ, Peres MFP, Jensen RH. Recent advances in diagnosing, managing, and understanding the pathophysiology of cluster headache. Lancet Neurol 2024; 23:712-724. [PMID: 38876749 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(24)00143-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Cluster headache, characterised by attacks of severe, recurrent, unilateral headache and ipsilateral cranial autonomic symptoms, remains a primary headache with an elusive pathophysiology. Recent advances have introduced effective treatments and broadened understanding of the clinical features of cluster headache. These features are similar in patients globally, but regional differences in prevalence and burden exist. International collaborations have led to identification of eight genetic loci associated with cluster headache. The pathophysiological mechanisms are still not fully understood but recent studies show that targeting the trigeminal autonomic reflex by neurostimulation, or targeting the neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), might lessen the attack burden. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved galcanezumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting CGRP, as the first specific preventive treatment for episodic cluster headache. However, a preventive effect was not replicated in chronic cluster headache, and the European Medicines Agency did not approve galcanezumab, restricting its availability in Europe. Owing to the low prevalence of cluster headache, continued collaboration through multicentre clinical trials and data sharing will be imperative for further breakthroughs in understanding and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja S Petersen
- Danish Headache Center and Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nunu Lund
- Danish Headache Center and Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter J Goadsby
- National Institute for Health and Care Research King's Clinical Research Facility, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Andrea C Belin
- Centre for Cluster Headache, Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Shuu-Jiun Wang
- Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; College of Medicine and Brain Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Rolf Fronczek
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Mark Burish
- Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Soo-Jin Cho
- Department of Neurology, Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Hwaseong, South Korea
| | - Mario F P Peres
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil; Instituto de Psiquiatria, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rigmor H Jensen
- Danish Headache Center and Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Liaw YC, Chen SP, Wang SJ. The Prevalence and Clinical Phenotypes of Cluster Headache in Relation with Latitude. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2024; 28:427-438. [PMID: 38441794 PMCID: PMC11126473 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-024-01229-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Previous studies have indicated a possible link between the prevalence of cluster headache (CH) and sunlight exposure. However, this theory has yet to be tested systemically. In this article, we aim to examine how latitude affects the prevalence and phenotypes of CH. RECENT FINDINGS To our knowledge, there is by far no article describing the effect of latitude on disease phenotype; thus, we performed a literature review. We noted positive effects of latitude on 1-year prevalence, the proportion of chronic CH, and the proportion of miosis and/or ptosis. Latitude may affect the phenotypic presentations of cluster headache, probably partially mediated via temperature and sunlight variations. Still, other factors, such as environmental exposure to smoking and the genetic difference between the Eastern and Western populations, may participate in the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of CH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Chia Liaw
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Pin Chen
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Brain Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Translational Research, Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shuu-Jiun Wang
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Brain Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Søborg MLK, Jensen RH, Barloese M, Petersen AS. Biomarkers in cluster headache: A systematic review. Headache 2024; 64:98-116. [PMID: 38111226 DOI: 10.1111/head.14641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To systematically investigate previously examined biomarkers in blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, tear fluid, and saliva of patients with cluster headache. BACKGROUND Cluster headache is a condition with extensive clinical challenges in terms of diagnosis and treatment. Identification of a biomarker with diagnostic implications or as a potential treatment target is highly warranted. METHODS We conducted a systematic review including peer reviewed full text of studies that measured biochemical compounds in either blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, tear fluid, or saliva of patients with cluster headache diagnosed after the implementation of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (1988) written in English, Danish, Swedish, or Norwegian. Inclusion required a minimum of five participants. The search was conducted in PubMed and EMBASE, in September 2022, and extracted data were screened by two authors. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for reporting systematic reviews were followed. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the risk of bias in case-controlled studies. RESULTS We included 40 studies involving 832 patients with cluster headache and 872 controls, evaluating 80 potential biomarkers. The risk of bias for case-controlled studies was a median of 6 (range: 3-8) and 20 studies out of 40 (50%) were of fair or good quality. Most studies were identified within three groups: hypothalamic-regulated hormones, inflammatory markers, and neuropeptides. Among the hypothalamic hormones, cortisol was the most frequently investigated (N = 7) and was elevated in cluster headache in most of the studies. The most frequently examined inflammatory marker was interleukin 1 (N = 3), but findings were divergent. Calcitonin gene-related peptide was the most investigated neuropeptide (N = 9) and all studies found increased levels during attacks. CONCLUSION Biomarker findings have been inconsistent and widely non-specific for cluster headache, which explains why none of the previous studies succeeded in identifying a unique biomarker for cluster headache, but instead contributed to substantiating the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms. Several of the examined biomarkers could hold promise as markers for disease activity but are unfit for a clear distinction from both controls and other headaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Louise K Søborg
- The Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Rigmor H Jensen
- The Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mads Barloese
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Hvidovre Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Anja S Petersen
- The Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
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Fogh-Andersen IS, Sørensen JCH, Petersen AS, Jensen RH, Meier K. The HortONS study. Treatment of chronic cluster headache with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and occipital nerve stimulation: study protocol for a prospective, investigator-initiated, double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. BMC Neurol 2023; 23:379. [PMID: 37865755 PMCID: PMC10590038 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-023-03435-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic cluster headache (CCH) is a debilitating primary headache disorder. Occipital nerve stimulation (ONS) has shown the potential to reduce attack frequency, but the occipital paresthesia evoked by conventional (tonic) stimulation challenges a blinded comparison of active stimulation and placebo. Burst ONS offers paresthesia-free stimulation, enabling a blinded, placebo-controlled study. Identification of a feasible preoperative test would help select the best candidates for implantation. This study aims to explore ONS as a preventive treatment for CCH, comparing burst stimulation to tonic stimulation and placebo, and possibly identifying a potential preoperative predictor. METHODS An investigator-initiated, double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial is conducted, including 40 patients with CCH. Eligible patients complete a trial with the following elements: I) four weeks of baseline observation, II) 12 weeks of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) of the occipital nerves, III) implantation of a full ONS system followed by 2 week grace period, IV) 12 weeks of blinded trial with 1:1 randomization to either placebo (deactivated ONS system) or burst (paresthesia-free) stimulation, and V) 12 weeks of tonic stimulation. The primary outcomes are the reduction in headache attack frequency with TENS and ONS and treatment safety. Secondary outcomes are treatment efficacy of burst versus tonic ONS, the feasibility of TENS as a predictor for ONS outcome, reduction in headache pain intensity (numeric rating scale), reduction in background headache, the patient's impression of change (PGIC), health-related quality of life (EuroQoL-5D), self-reported sleep quality, and symptoms of anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS). Data on headache attack characteristics are registered weekly. Data on patient-reported outcomes are assessed after each trial phase. DISCUSSION The study design allows a comparison between burst ONS and placebo in refractory CCH and enables a comparison of the efficacy of burst and tonic ONS. It will provide information about the effect of burst ONS and explore whether the addition of this stimulation paradigm may improve stimulation protocols. TENS is evaluated as a feasible preoperative screening tool for ONS outcomes by comparing the effect of attack prevention of TENS and tonic ONS. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study is registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (trial registration number NCT05023460, registration date 07-27-2023).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Stisen Fogh-Andersen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 165J, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Center for Experimental Neuroscience (CENSE), Institute of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Jens Christian Hedemann Sørensen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 165J, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center for Experimental Neuroscience (CENSE), Institute of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Rigmor Højland Jensen
- Danish Headache Centre, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kaare Meier
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 165J, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
- Center for Experimental Neuroscience (CENSE), Institute of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Anesthesiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Lund NLT, Petersen AS, Fronczek R, Tfelt-Hansen J, Belin AC, Meisingset T, Tronvik E, Steinberg A, Gaul C, Jensen RH. Current treatment options for cluster headache: limitations and the unmet need for better and specific treatments-a consensus article. J Headache Pain 2023; 24:121. [PMID: 37667192 PMCID: PMC10476341 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-023-01660-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Treatment for cluster headache is currently based on a trial-and-error approach. The available preventive treatment is unspecific and based on few and small studies not adhering to modern standards. Therefore, the authors collaborated to discuss acute and preventive treatment in cluster headache, addressing the unmet need of safe and tolerable preventive medication from the perspectives of people with cluster headache and society, headache specialist and cardiologist. FINDINGS The impact of cluster headache on personal life is substantial. Mean annual direct and indirect costs of cluster headache are more than 11,000 Euros per patient. For acute treatment, the main problems are treatment response, availability, costs and, for triptans, contraindications and the maximum use allowed. Intermediate treatment with steroids and greater occipital nerve blocks are effective but cannot be used continuously. Preventive treatment is sparsely studied and overall limited by relatively low efficacy and side effects. Neurostimulation is a relevant option for treatment-refractory chronic patients. From a cardiologist's perspective use of verapamil and triptans may be worrisome and regular follow-up is essential when using verapamil and lithium. CONCLUSION We find that there is a great and unmet need to pursue novel and targeted preventive modalities to suppress the horrific pain attacks for people with cluster headache.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunu Laura Timotheussen Lund
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Valdemar Hansens Vej 5, 2600, Glostrup, Denmark.
- Department of Neurology, Sjællands Universitetshospital Roskilde, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Anja Sofie Petersen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Valdemar Hansens Vej 5, 2600, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Rolf Fronczek
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederlands (SEIN), Sleep-Wake Centre, Heemstede, The Netherlands
| | - Jacob Tfelt-Hansen
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andrea Carmine Belin
- Centre for Cluster Headache, Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tore Meisingset
- Norwegian Advisory Unit On Headaches, St. Olav University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- NorHEAD, Norwegian Headache Research Centre, NTNU, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Erling Tronvik
- Norwegian Advisory Unit On Headaches, St. Olav University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- NorHEAD, Norwegian Headache Research Centre, NTNU, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Anna Steinberg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Charly Gaul
- Charly Gaul, Headache Center, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Rigmor Højland Jensen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Valdemar Hansens Vej 5, 2600, Glostrup, Denmark
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Lee MJ, Park JW, Chu MK, Moon HS, Chung PW, Chung JM, Sohn JH, Kim BK, Kim BS, Kim SK, Song TJ, Choi YJ, Park KY, Oh K, Ahn JY, Lee KS, Bae DW, Cho SJ. Treatment pattern and response for cluster headache in Korea: A prospective multicenter observation study. Cephalalgia 2023; 43:3331024231159627. [PMID: 36855967 DOI: 10.1177/03331024231159627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Only limited data are available regarding the treatment status and response to cluster headache in an Asian population. Therefore, this study aimed to provide a real-world treatment pattern of cluster headache and the response rate of each treatment in an Asian population. METHODS Patients with cluster headache were recruited between September 2016 and January 2019 from 16 hospitals in Korea. At the baseline visit, we surveyed the patients about their previous experience of cluster headache treatment, and acute and/or preventive treatments were prescribed at the physician's discretion. Treatment response was prospectively evaluated using a structured case-report form at 2 ± 2 weeks after baseline visit and reassessed after three months. RESULTS Among 295 recruited patients, 262 experiencing active bouts were included. Only one-third of patients reported a previous experience of evidence-based treatment. At the baseline visit, oral triptans (73.4%), verapamil (68.3%), and systemic steroids (55.6%) were the three most common treatments prescribed by the investigators. Most treatments were given as combination. For acute treatment, oral triptans and oxygen were effective in 90.1% and 86.8% of the patients, respectively; for preventive treatment, evidence-based treatments, i.e. monotherapy or different combinations of verapamil, lithium, systemic steroids, and suboccipital steroid injection, helped 75.0% to 91.8% of patients. CONCLUSION Our data provide the first prospective analysis of treatment responses in an Asian population with cluster headache. The patients responded well to treatment despite the limited availability of treatment options, and this might be attributed at least in part by combination of medications. Most patients were previously undertreated, suggesting a need to raise awareness of cluster headache among primary physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Ji Lee
- Department of Neurology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong Wook Park
- Department of Neurology, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine, Uijeongbu, Korea
| | - Min Kyung Chu
- Department of Neurology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Heui-Soo Moon
- Department of Neurology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Pil-Wook Chung
- Department of Neurology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Myun Chung
- Department of Neurology, Inje University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong-Hee Sohn
- Department of Neurology, Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Byung-Kun Kim
- Department of Neurology, Eulji University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Byung-Su Kim
- Department of Neurology, Bundang Jesaeng General Hospital, Daejin Medical Center, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Soo-Kyoung Kim
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Tae-Jin Song
- Department of Neurology, Seoul Hospital, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Kwang-Yeol Park
- Department of Neurology, Chung-Ang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyungmi Oh
- Department of Neurology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin-Young Ahn
- Department of Neurology, Seoul Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwang-Soo Lee
- Department of Neurology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dae Woong Bae
- Department of Neurology, The Catholic University of Korea, St Vincent's Hospital, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Jin Cho
- Department of Neurology, Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Hwaseong, Korea
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Diener HC, Tassorelli C, Dodick DW. Management of Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalalgias Including Chronic Cluster: A Review. JAMA Neurol 2023; 80:308-319. [PMID: 36648786 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2022.4804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Importance Trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TACs) comprise a unique collection of primary headache disorders characterized by moderate or severe unilateral pain, localized in in the area of distribution of the first branch of the trigeminal nerve, accompanied by cranial autonomic symptoms and signs. Most TACs are rare diseases, which hampers the possibility of performing randomized clinical trials and large studies. Therefore, knowledge of treatment efficacy must be based only on observational studies, rare disease registries, and case reports, where real-world data and evidence play an important role in health care decisions. Observations Chronic cluster headache is the most common of these disorders, and the literature offers some evidence from randomized clinical trials to support the use of pharmacologic and neurostimulation treatments. Galcanezumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide, was not effective at 3 months in a randomized clinical trial but showed efficacy at 12 months in a large case series. For the other TACs (ie, paroxysmal hemicrania, hemicrania continua, short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing, and short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with cranial autonomic symptoms), only case reports and case series are available to guide physicians in everyday management. Conclusions and Relevance The accumulation of epidemiologic, pathophysiologic, natural history knowledge, and data from case series and small controlled trials, especially over the past 20 years from investigators around the world, has added to the previously limited evidence and has helped advance and inform the treatment approach to rare TACs, which can be extremely challenging for clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Christoph Diener
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology (IMIBE), Department of Neuroepidemiology, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Cristina Tassorelli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Headache Science & Neurorehabilitation Centre, IRCCS C., Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - David W Dodick
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona
- Atria Institute, New York, New York
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Petersen AS, Barloese M, Lund N, Pedersen AF, Søborg MLK, Chalmer MA, Callesen I, Winsvold BS, Zwart JA, Ostrowski SR, Pedersen OB, Sellebjerg F, Søndergaard HB, Hansen MB, Jensen RH, Hansen TF. Cluster headache polygenetic risk and known functional variants of CYP3A4 are not associated with treatment response. Eur J Neurol 2023; 30:1425-1434. [PMID: 36773010 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The response to cluster headache treatments has a high interindividual variation. To date, treatment response has only been assessed by a candidate gene approach and no investigations into metabolic pathways have been performed. Our aim was to investigate the association between the polygenetic risk of cluster headache and treatment response to first-line cluster headache treatments as well as known functional variants of CYP3A4 and the response to verapamil. Further, it was aimed to replicate previous single nucleotide polymorphisms found to be associated with treatment response in cluster headache and/or migraine. METHODS In, 508 cluster headache patients diagnosed according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders were genotyped and participated in a semi-structured interview to evaluate treatment response. Polygenetic risk scores were calculated by the effect retrieved from a meta-analysis of the latest two genome-wide association studies on cluster headache. RESULTS Inferior treatment response to oxygen, triptans and verapamil is associated with chronicity of cluster headache were confirmed but no evidence was found that a response could be predicted by a high genetic risk of cluster headache. Likewise, verapamil response was not associated with functional variants of CYP3A4. No support of the genetic variants previously reported to be associated with treatment response to triptans or verapamil was found. CONCLUSION The clinically relevant variation in treatment response for cluster headache was not influenced by genetic factors in the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Sofie Petersen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Mads Barloese
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nunu Lund
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Adam Friis Pedersen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Marie-Louise Kulas Søborg
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Mona Ameri Chalmer
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Ida Callesen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Bendik Slagsvold Winsvold
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Research and Innovation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - John-Anker Zwart
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Research and Innovation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Sisse Rye Ostrowski
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole Birger Pedersen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Immunology, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark
| | - Finn Sellebjerg
- Department of Neurology, Danish Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Helle Bach Søndergaard
- Department of Neurology, Danish Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Malene Bredahl Hansen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Rigmor Højland Jensen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Folkmann Hansen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
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10
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Søborg MLK, Petersen AS, Lund N, Wandall-Holm MF, Jensen RH, Barloese M. Transition of cluster headache phenotype: An interview-based study. Cephalalgia 2023; 43:3331024221128287. [PMID: 36587291 DOI: 10.1177/03331024221128287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Background Cluster headache exists diagnostically in a chronic and episodic variant between which patients can convert. We aimed to describe how many patients change phenotype, elucidate possible factors associated with this transition and identify differences in clinical features between primary and secondary phenotypes.Methods 540 well-defined cluster headache patients according to current ICHD-criteria completed a cross-sectional semi-structured interview.Results Total transition-incidence for the cohort was 20.7%. Conversion from chronic to episodic was reported by 6.3% and transition from episodic to chronic by 14.4% with attack side shift as a possible predictor (p = 0.007). Compared to primary chronic patients, secondary chronic patients had more frequent (60 vs 34 per month, p = 0.0487), but shorter (60 vs 90 minutes, p = 0.041) attacks. Secondary episodic patients experienced shorter remission periods than primary episodic patients (6 vs 11 months, p = 0.010). Treatment response was poor in all groups and only one third had effective prevention.Conclusion Cluster headache is a fluctuating disorder with a fifth of our cohort having experienced at least one phenotype change during course of disease. Apart from attack side shifts, no predictors for transition were identified. Severity differed between primary and secondary subtypes. Overall, there is an urgent need for better understanding of cluster headache.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Louise Kulas Søborg
- The Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Anja Sofie Petersen
- The Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Nunu Lund
- The Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Malthe Faurschou Wandall-Holm
- The Danish Multiple Sclerosis Registry, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Rigmor Højland Jensen
- The Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Mads Barloese
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Hvidovre Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
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11
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Schoenen J, Snoer AH, Brandt RB, Fronczek R, Wei DY, Chung CS, Diener HC, Dodick DW, Fontaine D, Goadsby PJ, Matharu MS, May A, McGinley JS, Tepper SJ, Jensen RH, Ferrari MD, Schoenen J, Jensen R, Ferrari MD, May A, Diener HC, Goadsby PJ, Matharu MS, Tepper SJ, Dodick DW, Chung CS, Fontaine D, McGinley JS, Snoer AH, Fronczek R, Brandt RW, Wei DY, Terwindt G, Tassorelli C, Diener HC, Ashina M, Goadsby PJ, Leroux E, Lipton RB, Pozo-Rosich P, Wang SJ, Christensen MD, Martini D, van den Hoek T. Guidelines of the International Headache Society for Controlled Clinical Trials in Cluster Headache. Cephalalgia 2022; 42:1450-1466. [DOI: 10.1177/03331024221120266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In 1995, a committee of the International Headache Society developed and published the first edition of the Guidelines for Controlled Trials of Drugs in Cluster Headache. These have not been revised. With the emergence of new medications, neuromodulation devices and trial designs, an updated version of the International Headache Society Guidelines for Controlled Clinical Trials in Cluster Headache is warranted. Given the scarcity of evidence-based data for cluster headache therapies, the update is largely consensus-based, but takes into account lessons learned from recent trials and demands by patients. It is intended to apply to both drug and neuromodulation treatments, with specific proposals for the latter when needed. The primary objective is to propose a template for designing high quality, state-of-the-art, controlled clinical trials of acute and preventive treatments in episodic and chronic cluster headache. The recommendations should not be regarded as dogma and alternative solutions to particular methodological problems should be explored in the future and scientifically validated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Schoenen
- CHU de Liège, Neurology, Headache Research Unit, Citadelle Hospital, Liège, Belgium
| | | | | | - Rolf Fronczek
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Diana Y Wei
- King’s College London, Headache Group, London, UK
| | - Chin-Sang Chung
- Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Soeul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - David W Dodick
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
| | | | | | | | - Arne May
- Universitäts-Krankenhaus Eppendorf, Systems Neuroscience, Hamburg, Germany
| | - James S McGinley
- Vector Psychometric Group, Behaviorial Analytics, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Stewart J Tepper
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock, Department of Neurology, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
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12
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Rusanen SS, De S, Schindler EAD, Artto VA, Storvik M. Self-Reported Efficacy of Treatments in Cluster Headache: a Systematic Review of Survey Studies. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2022; 26:623-637. [PMID: 35759175 PMCID: PMC9436841 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-022-01063-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The use and efficacy of various substances in the treatment of CH have been studied in several retrospective surveys. The aim of the study is to systematically review published survey studies to evaluate the reported efficacies of both established and unconventional substances in abortive and prophylactic treatment of both episodic and chronic CH, specifically assessing the consistency of the results. RECENT FINDINGS No systematic review have been conducted of these studies previously. A systematic literature search with a set of search terms was conducted on PubMed. Retrospective surveys that quantified the self-reported efficacy of two or more CH treatments, published in English during 2000-2020, were included. Several key characteristics and results of the studies were extracted. A total of 994 articles were identified of which 9 were found to be eligible based on the selection criteria. In total, 5419 respondents were included. Oxygen and subcutaneous triptan injections were most reported as effective abortive treatments, while psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide were most commonly reported as effective prophylactic treatments. The reported efficacy of most substances was consistent across different studies, and there were marked differences in the reported efficacies of different substances. The reported order of efficacy is generally in agreement with clinical studies. The findings suggest that retrospective surveys can be used to obtain supporting information on the effects of various substances used in the treatment of CH and to form hypotheses about novel treatment methods. The consistently reported efficacy of psilocybin and LSD in prophylactic treatment indicates need for clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suchetana De
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Ville Aleksi Artto
- Department of Neurology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Markus Storvik
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.
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13
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Petersen AS, Lund N, Snoer A, Jensen RH, Barloese M. The economic and personal burden of cluster headache: a controlled cross-sectional study. J Headache Pain 2022; 23:58. [PMID: 35610587 PMCID: PMC9128287 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-022-01427-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cluster headache is a less-prevalent primary headache disorder but is overrepresented with regards to use of health care and social services. More insight into the socioeconomic impact is required. Methods We investigated both the personal and societal disease burden and cost in 400 patients with well-classified cluster headache according to the ICHD-criteria and 200 sex- and age matched controls. All participants completed a cross sectional questionnaire and semi-structured interview. Results Patients with chronic cluster headache constituted 146 out of 400 (37%). Overall, restriction in personal and/or professional life was reported by 94% of patients during attack periods. Even in remission, nine times as many episodic patients rated their health as poor/very poor compared to controls (9% vs 1%, p = 0.002). For chronic patients, the odds of rating health as good/very good were ten times lower compared to controls (OR:10.10, 95%CI:5.29–18.79. p < 0.001) and three times lower compared to episodic patients in remission (OR:3.22, 95%CI:1.90–5.47, p < 0.001). Additionally, chronic cluster headache patients were 5 times more likely to receive disability pension compared to episodic (OR:5.0, 95%CI:2.3–10.9, p < 0.001). The mean direct annual costs amounted to 9,158€ and 2,763€ for chronic and episodic patients, respectively (p < 0.001). We identified a substantial loss of productivity due to absence from work resulting in a higher indirect cost of 11,809 €/year/patient in the chronic population and 3,558 €/year/patient in the episodic population. Presenteeism could not be quantified but productivity was reduced in patients by 65% in periods with attacks compared to controls. Conclusion Cluster headache has a major negative impact on personal life, self-perceived health, and societal cost. Patients with the chronic variant are vastly more burdened. Patients with the episodic form were still markedly affected during the remission period. This study highlights the need for more effective therapy to lighten the burden on patients and society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Sofie Petersen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark.
| | - Nunu Lund
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Agneta Snoer
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Rigmor Højland Jensen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Mads Barloese
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Hvidovre Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
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14
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Mo H, Chung SJ, Rozen TD, Cho SJ. Oxygen Therapy in Cluster Headache, Migraine, and Other Headache Disorders. J Clin Neurol 2022; 18:271-279. [PMID: 35589316 PMCID: PMC9163947 DOI: 10.3988/jcn.2022.18.3.271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxygen therapy (OT) can relieve head pain in certain primary headache disorders, including cluster headache (CH). The exact underlying mechanism is currently uncertain, but suggested mechanisms include inhibition of the trigeminoautonomic reflex, modulation of neurotransmitters, and cerebral vasoconstriction. OT is the standard for acute treatment of CH, but patients with CH often experience considerable difficulties accessing home OT due to problems with insurance coverage. Inhalation of 100% oxygen at 6–12 L/min for 15–30 min using a non-rebreather face mask is one of the most effective acute therapies for CH, but several trials have indicated the superiority of higher oxygen flow rates of up to 15 L/min and/or using a demand-valve oxygen mask that can produce very high flow rates. Two randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the efficacy of OT in migraine, but obtaining reliable evidence is considered difficult because of different inhalation protocols, varying outcome measures, and small samples. There are some reports on the efficacy of OT as an adjuvant therapy in hypnic headache, primary headache in the emergency department, and even postdural puncture headache. The goal of this review article is to expand the knowledge regarding the use of oxygen in the treatment of headache disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heejung Mo
- Department of Neurology, Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Hwaseong, Korea
| | - Soo Jie Chung
- Department of Pulmonology, Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Hwaseong, Korea
| | - Todd D Rozen
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Soo-Jin Cho
- Department of Neurology, Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Hwaseong, Korea.
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15
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Schindler EAD. Psychedelics in the Treatment of Headache and Chronic Pain Disorders. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2022; 56:261-285. [PMID: 35546382 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2022_365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of psychedelics in headache and chronic pain disorders is documented over decades of anecdotal and early investigational reports, which have paved the way for the first controlled studies of psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in these disorders. The reported lasting clinical effects after limited dosing with psychedelics present a novel means for disease management, but considerable further study will be required to address disease-specific treatments, uncover mechanism(s) of action, and verify safety. In this chapter, these topics are reviewed with particular attention to the neurobiological systems that offer potential sources of psychedelics' unique clinical effects in headache and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuelle A D Schindler
- Headache Center of Excellence, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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16
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Abstract
Cluster headache belongs to the group of trigeminal autonomic headaches. This review summarizes drug therapy of cluster attacks and prophylactic treatment. Neurostimulation methods are not addressed. The therapy for acute cluster attacks includes inhalation of 100% oxygen, subcutaneous administration of sumatriptan, and intranasal application of sumatriptan or zolmitriptan. Bridging therapy, which is used until oral prophylactic therapy is effective, is performed either with oral prednisolone or with a pharmacological block of the major occipital nerves. Best documented drugs for preventive treatment of cluster headache are verapamil and lithium, and possibly effective drugs are gabapentin, topiramate, divalproex sodium, and melatonin. The efficacy of monoclonal antibodies to the calcitonin gene-related peptide so far has been only demonstrated for episodic cluster headache. Several drug therapies are being investigated including ketamine, onabotulinumtoxinA, lysergic acid, and sodium oxybate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Christoph Diener
- Department of Neuroepidemiology, Institute for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology (IMIBE), Medical Faculty of the University Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany.
| | - Arne May
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
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17
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Petersen AS, Pedersen AS, Barloese MCJ, Holm P, Pedersen O, Jensen RH, Snoer AH. Intranasal ketamine for acute cluster headache attacks-Results from a proof-of-concept open-label trial. Headache 2021; 62:26-35. [PMID: 34806165 DOI: 10.1111/head.14220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the safety and efficacy of intranasal ketamine for the treatment of a single cluster headache (CH) attack. BACKGROUND Acute treatment options for patients with CH who have an insufficient response to oxygen and triptans are limited. Intranasal ketamine has anecdotally been successful in treating a CH attack. METHODS We conducted an open-label pilot study enrolling 23 patients with chronic CH (International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition), and of these, 20 patients treated a single CH attack with intranasal ketamine. Under in-hospital observation, patients received 15 mg of intranasal ketamine every 6 min a maximum of five times. The primary endpoint was a 50% reduction in pain intensity within 15 min after initiating treatment. RESULTS The primary endpoint was not met; 15 min after the first ketamine administration, the mean reduction in pain intensity was 1.1 (95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.6 to 2.7, p = 0.188) on the numeric rating scale (NRS), equivalent to a 15% reduction in pain intensity. However, 30 min after the first application, the pain intensity was reduced by 59% on an 11-point NRS (mean difference: 4.3, 95% CI: 2.4-6.2, p < 0.001, N = 16) and 11 out of 16 (69%) scored 4 or below on the NRS. Four patients received rescue medication 15 min after the first ketamine application and were therefore excluded from the analysis at 30 min. Half of the patients preferred ketamine to oxygen and/or sumatriptan injection. No serious adverse events were identified during the trial. CONCLUSION Intranasal ketamine may be an effective acute treatment for CH at 30 min but should be tested in a larger controlled design. Patients and physicians should be conscious of the abuse potential of ketamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja S Petersen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Adam S Pedersen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Mads C J Barloese
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark.,Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Per Holm
- CCH Pharmaceuticals, Vanloese, Denmark
| | | | - Rigmor H Jensen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Agneta H Snoer
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
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