Biomarkers and Endophenotypes of Post-traumatic Headaches

To review existing literature on biomarkers for post-traumatic headache (PTH).

Preclinical models and clinical findings have started to elucidate the biology that underlies PTH. Traumatic brain injury results in ionic flux, glutamatergic surge, and activation of the trigeminal cervical complex resulting in the release of pain neuropeptides. These neuropeptides, including calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), play a key role in the pathophysiology of migraine and other primary headache disorders. Only two studies were identified that evaluated CGRP levels in PTH. Neither study found a consistent relationship between CGRP levels and PTH. One study did discover that nerve growth factor (NGF) was elevated in subjects with PTH.

There is no conclusive evidence for reliable blood-based biomarkers for PTH. Limitations in assays, collection technique, and time since injury must be taken into account. There are multiple ideal candidates that have yet to be explored.