Author:
Newman Lawrence C.,Levin Morris,Halker Singh Rashmi B.,Michael Rebecca L.
Abstract
Abstract
Nummular (“coin-shaped”) headache (NH) is characterized by generally continuous but usually not severe pain limited to a small area of the scalp. There can be sharp pains (lancinations) superimposed upon baseline aching pain. Diagnosing NH rests on identifying a small consistently located painful area in the scalp. The underlying pathophysiology is thought to be due to a local neuropathic process, perhaps akin to distal trigeminal or cervical root painful neuropathy. There is no definitive laboratory test for NH, and location can vary, although often the focal area is in the parietal scalp region. Pain can be bothersome, and treatment options (including local anesthetic procedures) are discussed in this chapter.