Evaluation of brainstem auditory evoked potential in Migraine Patient

Migraine is worldwide common, chronic, Neurovascular disorder, characterized by attacks of severe headache and an Aura involving neurologic symptoms. Its pathogenesis was incompletely understood whether of cortical or brainstem origin.

The present study was undertaken to investigate brainstem auditory functions in Migraine patients.

The subjects were recruited based on International Headache Society classification for Migraine. Subjects with episodes of headache for at least 2yrs, 2 attacks per month in last quarter year were included in the study. Forty subjects (16 Migraine with Aura & 24 cases-Migraine without aura) & forty age/sex matched controls were selected. Brainstem auditory evoked potential was recorded using 4-Channel polygraph (Neuro perfect plus). Electrodes were placed according to 10–20 electrode placement system. Auditory stimulus in the form of click sound is delivered through the headphones. Clicks were delivered at a rate of 8–10/sec. The intensity of the stimulus is set at 30db. About 100 averages were recorded. BAEP waveforms-Wave I, III & V latencies and the interpeak latencies were measured. The results were analysed statistically using student't ’test.

BAEP recording shows significant prolongation in latencies of Wave I, III & V and the Interpeak latency (IPL) I-III, III-V & I-V in Migraine with aura. In Migraine without aura, there was significant prolongation of Wave I, III & V and III-V & I-VIPL (P<0.05).

Prolongation suggests that there is involvement of brainstem structures in Migraine, thus BAEP can be used as an effective tool in evaluation of Migraine.