Trigemino-cervical reflex in patients with migraine

Neurophysiological studies have shown decreased excitability of the brain stem inhibitory interneurons in patients with headache. The C3 component of the trigemino-cervical reflex is nociceptive in character and may reflect the brain stem interneuron activity. This reflex is evoked by stimulation of the supraorbital nerve and recorded from the neck muscles. VVe recorded this reflex in 16 patients with migraine without aura and in 20 healthy subjects. There was not significant difference in latencies and amplitudes betvveen the two groups. VVe concluded that there is not decrease in brain stem inhibitory interneuronal activity İn migraine and this mechanism may not be responsible from pain control.