Multi-Modal Imaging in Low and High Frequency Migraine Patients
The CNS differences between patients that have frequent attacks and those that remain fairly migraine free are not known. Quantifying such differences during the interictal phase may shed light into resilience factors, the progression of migraine and treatment resistance. We believe the data collected via MRI scanning could provide a biomarker for abnormal CNS circuits in migraine patients and the ability to test the efficacy of medications during their non-migraine state.
Study Goals: This study is designed to evaluate pain processes in the brain and spinal cord, also known as the central nervous system (CNS), of people who experience migraine episodes in comparison with healthy volunteers.
Our Approach: This study involves a series of questionnaires as well as a brain scan using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) in order to measure anatomical, functional, and neurochemical differences in the brains of migraineurs during an interictal phase (between attacks) compared to healthy controls.
Funding Sources: This study is supported by NIH.
If you are interested in learning more, please contact Rosanna (Rosie) Veggeberg at migraine@mclean.harvard.edu or 781-216-1199.
