Migraine: Definition and Classification

Abstract

There are an enormous number of terms and classifications used in the field of headache and migraine. There is little general agreement and the situation is not helped by the introduction of new terminologies. An approach is suggested to overcome this problem based on the clinical characteristics of the patient. Until there are more definite markers of the different types of headaches, e.g. biochemical, physiological or pharmacological, this should obviate the need for yet further neurological debate.