Defining the differences between episodic migraine and chronic migraine

Zaza Katsarava, Dawn C. Buse, Aubrey N. Manack, Richard B. Lipton

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

201 Scopus citations

Abstract

Chronic migraine (CM) and episodic migraine (EM) are part of the spectrum of migraine disorders, but they are distinct clinical entities. Population-based studies have shown that those with CM demonstrate higher individual and societal burden because they are significantly more disabled than those with EM and have greater impaired quality of life both inside and outside the home. Proper diagnosis of both conditions requires clearly defined clinical criteria. Diagnosis enables the initiation of appropriate treatments and risk-factor modification, which ultimately improve functional status and quality of life for persons with migraine. Recognizing that both disorders are on the spectrum of migraine, this review serves as a guide to define the disease state of CM as distinct from EM in terms of clinical, epidemiological, sociodemographic, and comorbidity profiles.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)86-92
Number of pages7
JournalCurrent pain and headache reports
Volume16
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2012

Keywords

  • Chronic daily headache
  • Chronic migraine
  • Chronification
  • Diagnosis
  • Epidemiological profiles
  • Episodic migraine
  • Risk factors
  • Sociodemographics
  • Treatment

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Neurology
  • Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Defining the differences between episodic migraine and chronic migraine'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this