Abstract

The trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TACs) are a group of primary headache syndromes which are characterized unilateral recurrent severe headache with autonomic dysfunction. The individual attack involves activation of the trigeminal-autonomic reflex. The TACs include cluster headache, paroxysmal hemicranias and short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT). Cluster headache is the most common of this headache syndrome, while others(paroxysmal hemicranias, and SUNCT) are rarer. Cluster headache has the longest attack duration and relatively low attack frequency. Paroxysmal hemicranias have intermediate duration and frequency. SUNCT have the shortest attack duration and the highest frequency. These headache syndromes typically are marked by very severe pain and if not treated correctly can produce lifelong disability. This review gives an overview for TACs, recent pathophysiological findings and recognized treatments.