Hemicrania continua-like headache associated with internal carotid artery dissection may respond to indomethacin

Headache. 2007 Jan;47(1):127-30. doi: 10.1111/j.1526-4610.2006.00637.x.

Abstract

Hemicrania continua (HC) is an idiopathic, chronic disorder characterized by a continuous, strictly unilateral headache associated with ipsilateral cranial autonomic symptoms. The symptoms of HC typically respond dramatically to indomethacin therapy. We describe a patient with traumatic internal carotid artery dissection, who presented with a clinical picture mimicking HC that initially responded to indomethacin. Patients with a clinical picture similar to HC should be managed with a high index of suspicion for a possible cervical arterial dissection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / therapeutic use*
  • Carotid Artery, Internal, Dissection / complications*
  • Carotid Artery, Internal, Dissection / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Indomethacin / therapeutic use*
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography
  • Middle Aged
  • Migraine Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Migraine Disorders / etiology*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
  • Indomethacin