(1) Department of Neurology, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle/Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, D-06097 Halle/Saale, Germany;(2) Polytechnic College Anhalt, Fachbereich Elecktrotechnik, Köthen, Germany
Abstract:
Abstract. Activation in the brain stem during attacks of migraine
has been detected with the use of functional imaging, suggesting
an important role of the brain stem in this disorder. Recent
findings showed permanent cerebellar signs in common forms of
migraine. Both structures are involved in generating smooth
pursuit eye movements. The aim of this study was to investigate
migraine patients by electrooculography to identify persisting
abnormalities that may provide a clinical sign of continuous
dysfunction of these structures. We investigated 25 patients
with migraine without aura and 15 controls. Smooth pursuit was
pathologically changed, velocity gain was reduced and phase was
significantly altered in migraineurs as compared to controls.
The data provide clinical evidence of a persistent dysfunction
in the brain stem and certain cerebellar structures in migraine
patients. This is consistent with previous studies indicating an
important role of the brain stem in generating migraine
attacks.