Rhinogenic headache: A frequent cause of misdiagnosis

Authors

Zabrina M. Samarakkody, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, University of Science Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
Baharudin Abdullah, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, University of Science Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia

Article Type

Article

Abstract

Introduction: Rhinogenic headache is a headache or facial pain syndrome due to mucosal contact points in the nasal or sinus cavities in the absence of inflammatory sino-nasal, purulent discharge, sino-nasal polyps, mass or hyperplastic mucosa. The criteria for rhinogenic headache remains vague and uncertain which makes the diagnosis difficult.

Materials and methods: We report a case of a missed diagnosis of rhinogenic headache resulting in multiple hospital visits and improper medications being given.

Results: Among the types of headaches discussed in relation to rhinogenic headache were; migraines, tension headaches, and cluster headaches. The key to diagnosis is the pain location to the nose and the recognition of the extensive nervous system supply to the nose.

Conclusions: Rhinogenic headache is often a missed diagnosis, as often other literature has stated that it is a diagnosis of exclusion. However, it should always be remembered as one of the differential diagnosis of headache. Keywords: headache; rhinogenic; sinusitis

Keywords: headache; rhinogenic; sinusitis

Recommended Citation

Samarakkody ZM, Abdullah B. Rhinogenic headache: A frequent cause of misdiagnosis. Pan Arab J. Rhinol. 2017; 7 : -.
Available at: https://pajr.researchcommons.org/journal/vol7/iss2/8