Rare Case of Paediatric Neuralgiform Headache with Autonomic Symptoms: Diagnosis and Management Challenges

Authors

  • Catarina Ferreira Nunes Pediatrics Department, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, ULS de Amadora/Sintra, Amadora https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5572-1191
  • Luísa Castello-Branco Ribeiro Pediatrics Department, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, ULS de Amadora/Sintra, Amadora
  • Leonor Figueira Pediatrics Department, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, ULS de Amadora/Sintra, Amadora
  • Clara Abadesso Pediatrics Department, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, ULS de Amadora/Sintra
  • Andreia Filipa Mota Pediatrics Department, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, ULS de Amadora/Sintra
  • Catarina Luís Pediatrics Department, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, ULS de Amadora/Sintra

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25753/BirthGrowthMJ.v34.i4.37117

Keywords:

short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with cranial autonomic symptoms, neuralgiform headache, adolescent, paediatrics

Abstract

Neuralgiform headache, though rare, presents a diagnosis challenge in paediatric patients. This case study describes a 13-year-old female who experienced intense, electric shock-like headaches for two months. The headaches were unilateral, triggered by cold water, and associated with autonomic symptoms such as tearing, nasal congestion, and ptosis. Given the patient’s clinical presentation, a diagnosis of short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with cranial autonomic symptoms was proposed. Imaging tests revealed sinusitis and a dental periapical lesion. Surgical intervention and treatment with gabapentin along with clinical hypnosis resulted in significant pain relief, although not complete. This case underscores the importance of thorough investigation and multidisciplinary management in paediatric patients with complex headache presentations. The long-term prognosis is variable, warranting ongoing follow-up.

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Published

2025-12-23

How to Cite

1.
Ferreira Nunes C, Ribeiro LC-B, Figueira L, Abadesso C, Mota AF, Luís C. Rare Case of Paediatric Neuralgiform Headache with Autonomic Symptoms: Diagnosis and Management Challenges . BGMJ [Internet]. 2025 Dec. 23 [cited 2025 Dec. 31];34(4):186-90. Available from: https://revistas.rcaap.pt/bgmj/article/view/37117

Issue

Vol. 34 No. 4 (2025)

Section

Clinical Case Reports

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Copyright (c) 2025 Catarina Nunes

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