NATURE OF CLUSTER HEADACHE

SYNOPSIS The course of cluster headache was related to the levels of platelet serotonin and platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) histamine. They increased at the onset of the active period, decreased when the headaches were controlled, andincreased with the recurrence of another active period. Studies on 28 patients proved that the radionuclide static and dynamic brain scans, electroencephalograms, and visual and somatosensory evoked responses are normal during the free intervals. However, during the attacks bloodflow and visual evoked potential changes may occur. Cytological and biochemical studies during attacks of cluster headaches showed a generalized elevation of platelet serotonin and PRP histamine, and a reduction in the number of platelets. Blood samples obtained during the attacksfrom the jugular vein ipsilateral to the headaches showed a significant drop in the number of platelets and, possibly, a drop in PRP histamine. Cluster headache is a generalized biochemical and cytological disorder whose target is selective cranial vessels. Copyright © 1979, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved