Central nervous system dysregulation extends beyond the pain-matrix network in cluster headache.
BACKGROUND
In this study, we investigated whether abnormalities of the brain resting-state networks (RSNs) occur in patients with episodic cluster headache (CH), outside the attacks of the disease.


METHODS
RS fMRI scans were acquired from 13 CH patients and 15 healthy controls. RS fMRI data were analyzed using both independent component analysis (ICA) and a seed correlation analysis, starting from the hypothalamus and the thalamus.


RESULTS
The seed correlation analysis revealed increased functional connectivity within the networks identified starting from the hypothalami and thalami in CH patients versus controls. ICA analysis detected 11 RSNs with potential functional relevance. Among these networks, CH patients had decreased fluctuations within the sensorimotor and the primary visual network compared to controls (P-values 0.03-0.007). RSN abnormalities were significantly correlated with disease duration.


CONCLUSIONS
In CH patients a diffuse abnormality of brain functional connectivity is present, which extends beyond the antinoceptive system.
Institute of Experimental Neurology, Department of Neuroradiology, Scientific Institute and University Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy.
Maria A
MA
Rocca
Paola
P
Valsasina
Martina
M
Absinta
Bruno
B
Colombo
Valeria
V
Barcella
Andrea
A
Falini
Giancarlo
G
Comi
Massimo
M
Filippi
D000328:Adult; D001931:Brain Mapping; D003027:Cluster Headache / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009434:Neural Pathways / Q000503:physiopathology*