Serum levels of allopregnanolone in migraine patients: A case–control study

Creative Commons License

Beceren N. G. , Delikanlı M., Bedel C., Korkut M., Armağan H. H.

Indian Journal of Health Sciences and Biomedical Research KLEU, vol.14, no.1, pp.137-140, 2021 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)

Abstract

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