Cluster Headache: From Pathogenesis to Future Treatment Perspectives

Dear Colleagues,

Cluster headache, a neurovascular headache disorder, are regarded as one of the most painful syndromes known to man. Their clinical characteristics, including excruciating unilateral temporal pain, associated autonomic features, restlessness or agitation, circadian and circannual rhythmicity, indicate complex pathogenetic mechanisms. The activation of the ipsilateral hypothalamus and the trigeminovascular system, as well as inflammation, are suggested to be involved in the pathophysiology of this disorder; however, its cause is still unknown and still there is no cure. Genetic factors are involved and several new loci have been associated with cluster headache. Novel treatments with the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and its receptor complex as a target have shown to be effective in migraines, and its effects have also been shown for cluster headache.

In this Special Issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, we will focus on various aspects of cluster headache, from their molecular mechanisms to pathogenesis to future treatment perspectives. We welcome the submission of articles addressing genetics, pathophysiology, circadian rhythms, disease mechanisms, pain, gender differences and targeted treatment in relation to cluster headache. We look forward to receiving innovative research and reviews that contribute to our understanding of cluster headache at the molecular level and to the development of novel therapies.

Dr. Christina Sjöstrand
Guest Editor

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