Indian Journal of Health Sciences and Biomedical Research KLEU, cilt.14, sa.1, ss.137-140, 2021 (Diğer Kurumların Hakemli Dergileri)
Abstract:
INTRODUCTION: Migraine is a very common disorder and the mechanisms contributing to headache
still remain controversial. Allopregnanolone (AP) is a neurosteroid metabolite of progesterone.
Previously, there were some studies of AP on the positive effects of many diseases.
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate AP levels in patients with migraine and compare
with levels measured in healthy individuals.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This case–control study included fifty patients with acute migraine
headache who were previously diagnosed with migraine and fifty sex‑ and age‑matched healthy
volunteers with no headache complaints. Migraine patients who fulfilled the International Headache
Classification criteria of migraine and healthy controls were included in this study. Plasma AP levels
were compared in both groups.
RESULTS: Fifty patients (35 females and 15 males) and fifty healthy volunteers (38 females and
12 males) fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the study. AP levels of migraine patients
and control group were compared; there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups
(1.22 ± 1.92, 6.07 ± 4.89, respectively; P < 0.001). AP levels were significantly higher in healthy people.
CONCLUSION: This study showed that low AP levels were detected in migraine patients. These
markers may contribute to our understanding of the pathophysiology of migraine.
Keywords:
Allopregnanolone, headache, migraine
Introduction
Migraine is a widespread disease in
emergency departments (ED), which
is characterized by unilateral, throbbing
headaches with moderate or severe intensity,
and can affect the quality of life. Nausea,
vomiting, anorexia, and lightheadedness
are some of the most common associated
signs and symptoms.[1,2] It is the third to
most common disorder with a worldwide
prevalence of 14.7%.[3‑5] Because of its
high prevalence and destructive nature,
the mechanisms contributing to migraine
headaches have been extensively studied
for