Migraine CT

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Neuroimaging is not necessary in patients with a clinical diagnosis of migraine. Head images such CT and MRI might be needed to rule out other suspected possible causes of headache. It is suggested to order a CT scan without contrast among patients with an unusual headache.

CT is indicated in patients with: ^{[1] [2]}

• Abnormal physical examination
  • Increase of headache's frequency
  • Poor coordination
  • Focal neurologic signs
  • Headache's awakening the patient at night^[3][4]
• Atypical aura: sudden onset, lasting more than 1 hour, always at the same side and/or without visual symptoms
• Migraine attacks that begin after 50 years of age

CT is not indicated in:

• Patients with a diagnosis of migraine in accordance with the criteria for migraine.
• Differentiating a migraine from other primary headaches