MigraineMind research summary

Cluster Analysis of Migraine-Associated Symptoms (CAMS) across the lifespan: a cross-sectional study.

BMC Neurol | 2026

Observational study
AuthorsPatterson Gentile C, Kaiser E, Szperka CL, Hershey AD, Aguirre GK
JournalBMC Neurol
Publication year2026
PubMed ID42432507

Summary

Headache-associated symptoms like nausea and sensitivity help classify primary headache disorders. We developed a tool called Cluster Analysis of Migraine-Associated Symptoms, or CAMS. This tool captures the relationships among several headache-associated symptoms. Our research shows that older age and greater headache burden relate to more symptoms. We aimed to see if CAMS applies to adults as well. We used the Penn Online Evaluation of Migraine survey to study participants aged 18 years and older. Three CAMS models were compared, including one for adults and one for children. We measured changes in CAMS based on age and headache burden. The adult and pediatric models were consistent with the original CAMS model. The first dimension addressed the presence or absence of symptoms. The second dimension distinguished typical migraine symptoms from vestibular symptoms. CAMS is generalizable across age groups, providing reliable information about headache-associated symptoms. Clinical relevance: This research indicates that a greater number of symptoms indicates increased headache burden and allodynia, suggesting the need for tailored treatments in various age groups.

Key Learning Points

  • Headache symptoms like nausea and sensitivity are important for classifying primary headache disorders.
  • The Cluster Analysis of Migraine-Associated Symptoms (CAMS) tool helps understand the relationships among headache-associated symptoms.
  • Older individuals and those with more severe headaches tend to experience a greater number of symptoms.
  • CAMS is effective for both adults and children, making it a versatile tool for headache assessment.
  • A higher number of symptoms may indicate a need for personalized treatment approaches based on age and headache severity.

Original research

Read the original publication and review its full methods and findings on PubMed.

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