Evaluation of beta-endorphin secretion in patients suffering from episodic cluster headache

• Published in: Headache Vol. 36; no. 10; p. 603
• Main Authors: Franceschini, R, Leandri, M, Gianelli, M V, Cataldi, A, Bruno, E, Rolandi, E, Barreca, T
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.11.1996
• Subjects: Adult; beta-Endorphin - blood; beta-Endorphin - metabolism; Circadian Rhythm; Cluster Headache - blood; Cluster Headache - physiopathology; Humans; Male; Middle Aged
• ISSN: 0017-8748
• DOI: 10.1046/j.1526-4610.1996.3610603.x

In order to obtain data regarding peripheral levels of beta-endorphin in head pain syndromes, we evaluated the plasma beta-endorphin secretory pattern in 12 adult male patients suffering from cluster headache. Blood samples were drawn every 2 hours for a 24-hour period, and in addition at 30-minute intervals for 120 minutes during cluster attacks. The same sampling was repeated during an asymptomatic period. Cluster headache patients showed no significant beta-endorphin circadian rhythm and a delayed acrophase during cluster periods compared with that recorded in the remission period and in normal subjects. Eighteen cluster headache attacks were recorded during the study day, 13 (72%) of which were followed by a significant increase in beta-endorphin levels. No correlation was found between beta-endorphin maximum net increase and intensity and/or duration of pain. These data suggest the hypothesis of a temporary alteration of beta-endorphin circadian secretion, probably related to involvement of neural structures controlling biorhythm pacemakers.