Neurophysiological Tests and Neuroimaging Procedures in Non-Acute Headache

The most important tools in the diagnosis and treatment of headache disorders are, without doubt, careful clinical neurological examinations and detailed reports on the patient ’ s history and symptoms. Application of the diagnostic criteria of the International Headache Society (IHS Classifi cation 2nd edition), can lead to a probable diagnosis that allows adequate treatment. However, in many cases, particularly when the headache presents as atypical with changing clinical features or as a symptom of another primary illness, neurologists fi nd it necessary to supplement the clinical work - up of the patient with para - clinical tests. The differential diagnosis of acute headache (e.g. primary thunderclap headache) versus symptomatic headache presents several diffi culties and neuroimaging investigations are mandatory. This report is an update of the fi rst edition of these guidelines and is based on a critical review of the literature on the application of neurophysiological tests and imaging procedures in non - acute headache patients.