Non-hypothalamic cluster headache: The role of the greater occipital nerve in cluster headache pathogenesis

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13 Scopus citations

Abstract

Cluster headache is marked by its circadian rhythmicity and the hypothalamus appears to have a significant influence over cluster pathogenesis. However, as not all cluster patients present in the same manner and not all respond to the same combination of medications, there is likely a non-hypothalamic form of cluster headache. A patient is presented who began to develop cluster headaches after receiving bilateral greater occipital nerve (GON) blockade. His headaches fit the IHS criteria for cluster headache but had some irregularities including frequent side shifting of pain, irregular duration and time of onset and the ability of the patient to sit completely still during a headache without any sense of agitation. This article will suggest that some forms of cluster headache are not primarily hypothalamic influenced and that the GON may play a significant role in cluster pathogenesis in some individuals.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)149-151
Number of pages3
JournalJournal of Headache and Pain
Volume6
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2005

Keywords

  • Cluster headache
  • Greater occipital nerve
  • Hypothalamus
  • Nerve blockade

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Neurology
  • Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine

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