Neuroimaging of Headache: Indications and Controversies

Abstract

Headache is a common presenting symptom in the ambulatory setting that often prompts imaging. The increased use and associated health care money spent in the setting of headache have raised questions about the cost-effectiveness of neuroimaging in this setting. Neuroimaging for headache in most cases is unlikely to reveal significant abnormality or impact patient management. In this article, reasons behind an observed increase in neuroimaging and its impact on health care expenditures are discussed. The typical imaging modalities available and various imaging guidelines for common clinical headache scenarios are presented, including recommendations from the American College of Radiology.

Keywords: Brain; Computed tomography; Headache; MRI; Neuroimaging.