Beyond migraine: A narrative review of photophobia's clinical spectrum.

Photophobia is a common and often disabling symptom in various conditions. It is particularly prevalent in migraine but also seen in common eye diseases. This review explores the complex interactions between visual and nociceptive pathways. Photophobia frequently occurs in migraine and traumatic brain injury cases. It is also noted in ocular conditions like dry eye disease and corneal pathology. Current studies suggest altered interactions within visual-trigeminal pathways cause this symptom. Photophobia can lead to impaired daily functioning and increased psychological distress. Understanding photophobia's clinical features, mechanisms, and challenges is crucial for effective management. The review draws on literature from PubMed, focusing on neurological and ophthalmological perspectives. Management addresses the underlying condition, while optical filtering may provide relief. Photophobia is multifactorial, reflecting both ocular and central nervous system mechanisms. Greater understanding of these pathways can improve diagnosis and support individualized treatment strategies. Clinical relevance: This review highlights the need for better understanding and management of photophobia in migraine and other conditions.