Epidemiology of cluster headache

摘要

Our knowledge of the epidemiology of cluster headache is sparse, in spite of the fact that it is one of the most severe and excruciating primary headache disorders. Although cluster headache is rare compared to the other main primary headache disorders, its clinical presentation is more consistent and the condition is therefore generally relatively easy to diagnose. Nevertheless, many patients remain undiagnosed because less than half of subjects with cluster headache had ever consulted a physician because of the headaches.1,2 Several clinical studies on cluster headache have been published, but all them may be biased owing to selection. It is essential that studies on the epidemiology of cluster headache are carried out in representative general populations. However, large sample sizes are required becasue of the relatively low prevalence of the disorder. Epidemiological studies of unselected populations are an important complement to clinical studies, since they help to clarify the natural history of the disease. Epidemiological studies can provide information about the prevalence of the disorder and about its distribution in relation to age and sex. Moreover, such studies make it possible to get information about possible risk factors, socio-economic consequences, and the social impact of the disorder. Studies on the epidemiology of cluster headache in representative populations may also serve as reference material for other investigations in selected groups.