Migraine as a Risk Factor for Subclinical Brain Lesions

Migraine patients may have a higher prevalence of brain lesions. This study evaluated Dutch adults aged 30 to 60 years. Researchers compared migraine patients with controls for brain infarcts and white matter lesions. They looked at 161 patients with migraine with aura, 134 without aura, and 140 controls. Nearly 50% of migraine patients had not been previously diagnosed. Brain MRI scans assessed lesions' location and vascular supply. Results showed no overall difference in infarct prevalence between groups. However, migraine patients had more cerebellar infarcts compared to controls. The odds ratio for posterior infarcts was significantly higher in migraine patients with aura. Monthly attack frequency also influenced risk levels. Women had an increased risk for deep white matter lesions, especially with more frequent attacks. However, men showed no difference in deep white matter lesions. These findings suggest that migraine may increase the risk for certain brain lesions. Clinical relevance: This study highlights the need for monitoring brain health in migraine patients.