The role of BOLD-fMRI in elucidating migraine pathophysiology

Neurol Sci. 2013 May:34 Suppl 1:S47-50. doi: 10.1007/s10072-013-1383-z.

Abstract

Migraine is a neurologic disorder characterized by disabling attacks of throbbing headache with specific features and associated symptoms. Despite the recent discoveries in basic neurosciences, migraine pathophysiology is not completely understood. Nevertheless, in the last decades, advances in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have significantly provided new insights into migraine mechanisms. Blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) fMRI technique is the most commonly used method to explore brain function and connectivity due to high temporal and spatial resolution. The purpose of this review is to present a synthesis of recent BOLD-fMRI studies which have allowed us to elucidate the complex process involved in migraine pathophysiology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Mapping / methods*
  • Cerebrovascular Circulation / physiology
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Migraine Disorders / physiopathology*
  • Oxygen / blood

Substances

  • Oxygen