Blink Reflex Alterations in Migraine

Aim: According to the neurovascular theory, stimulation of the trigeminovascular system is the cause of neurogenic inflammation and pain in migraine. The blink reflex that is elicited by supraorbital stimulation of trigeminal ophthalmic division is a useful method to study the functioning of trigeminal system. The purpose of this study was to examine the blink reflex in migraine patients. Material and method: In this study, blink reflex latencies were evaluated in 25 migraine patients (average age 34,76±8,23 yrs) and compared to those of 25 healthy controls (average age 35,5±8 yrs). Statistical analysis was performed using unpaired Student t test. Results: Results obtained from migraine patients were as follows; ipsilateral latency component R1:11,22±1,64 msec, ipsilateral latency component R2:31,33±4,12 msec, contralateral latency component R2:33,12±5,18. Results obtained from healthy controls were as follows; ipsilateral latency component R1: 10,21±1,42 msec, ipsilateral latency component R2 31,09±2,4 msec, contralateral latency component R2: 32,31±3,34 nmsec. Ipsilateral R1 latencies were found to be significantly prolonged than those of the healthy controls. Conclusion: The results might suggest a dysfunction in trigeminal networks in brainstem bof migraineurs and support the trigeminovascular theory of migraine.