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Semin Neurol 2022; 42(04): 479-488
DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1757927
Review Article

Headache in the Pediatric Population: Focus on Migraine

Samantha L. Irwin
1   Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), California
,
Kaitlin A. Greene
2   Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU), Portland, Oregon
,
Sara J. Pavitt
3   Department of Neurology, University of Texas, Austin, Texas
,
Alexandra C. Ross
4   Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), California
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Abstract

Pediatric headache is a common condition with significant impact on quality of life and ability to function in academic, social, and extracurricular activities. Most pediatric patients seen in primary care and neurology clinics with headache have primary headache disorders. Diagnosis is largely based on clinical history. Imaging is rarely needed in the absence of red flag features. Careful diagnosis is important to guide appropriate treatment. Treatment focuses on a biopsychosocial model integrating lifestyle, pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment modalities. As few therapies are approved in the pediatric population, treatments are often used off-label based on evidence extrapolated from adult studies. Outcomes vary over time but are generally favorable when headache disorders are diagnosed promptly and managed in a multidisciplinary setting.

Keywords

pediatric headache - pediatric migraine - episodic migraine - cognitive behavioral therapy - neuromodulation


Publication History

Article published online:
02 November 2022

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