Unanswered questions in headache: so what is photophobia, anyway?

Headache. 2013 Nov-Dec;53(10):1673-4. doi: 10.1111/head.12227. Epub 2013 Sep 23.

Abstract

Photophobia refers to a sensory disturbance provoked by light. However, because it arises distinctly in a broad range of clinical conditions, its definition remains elusive. Many underscore the painful sensory aspects of photophobia, while others emphasize its unpleasant, affective qualities. To add further complexity, recent discoveries in photophobia research have raised disparate and potentially conflicting results. In this installment of an occasional series, we asked clinicians and scientists to give their interpretation of what these discoveries tell us about photophobia in the clinic, and vice versa.

Keywords: aversion; migraine; ophthalmology; pain; photophobia; trigeminal.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Headache / complications
  • Headache / diagnosis*
  • Headache / therapy
  • Humans
  • Light / adverse effects*
  • Photophobia / complications
  • Photophobia / diagnosis*
  • Photophobia / therapy