(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 migrainehas been detected with the use of functional imaging, suggestingan important role of the brain stem in this disorder. Recentfindings showed permanent cerebellar signs in common forms ofmigraine. Both structures are involved in generating smoothpursuit eye movements. The aim of this study was to investigatemigraine patients by electrooculography to identify persistingabnormalities that may provide a clinical sign of continuousdysfunction of these structures. We investigated 25 patientswith migraine without aura and 15 controls. Smooth pursuit waspathologically changed, velocity gain was reduced and phase wassignificantly altered in migraineurs as compared to controls.The data provide clinical evidence of a persistent dysfunctionin the brain stem and certain cerebellar structures in migrainepatients. This is consistent with previous studies indicating animportant role of the brain stem in generating migraineattacks.
