(A note by Paolo Martelletti, 1st Vice-President of EHF and founding Editor-in-Chief of The Journal of Headache and Pain)

Why is this consensus important?

The diagnosis of primary headache disorders is clinical and currently based on the diagnostic criteria of the International Headache Society (ICHD-3-beta). However, several brain conditions may mimic primary headache disorders and laboratory investigation may be needed. This necessity occurs when the treating physician doubts the primary origin of headache.

Up-to-date there is no official recommendation for these diagnostic tests, although headache remains the most common presenting symptom in people asking medical consultation.

To bridge this gap, the EHF appointed an internal and external committee to prepare a consensus on diagnostic testing that primary headache disorders may require.

How was the consensus reached?

This process was undertaken in 3 phases, and took 2 years to develop. Renowned experts in this field, including all National European Headache Societies, and the European Headache Alliance were invited to review and comment during the review phase.

This consensus adds new and important insights to the International Headache Society (ICHD-3-beta), published by the International Headache Society.

Read the full article, published in The Journal of Headache and Pain.