Acupuncture and lamotrigine for acute short unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing syndrome: a case report.

Abstract

Short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) is a rare, primary headache syndrome, characterized by a short-lasting headache in the first division of the trigeminal nerve, associated with ipsilateral autonomic symptoms. It is currently classified within the trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TACs) group. Although considered rare, in recent years, the increasing numbers of reported cases, including those of a secondary nature, has reignited interest in the scientific community. Its treatment is also considered a challenge due to the unclear pathophysiology.1 The most widely used treatments during acute episodes include lidocaine infusions or prednisone,2 while lamotrigine is the firstline drug for chronic treatment.3 Acupuncture, a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is one of the most common complementary therapies worldwide and recent evidence has confirmed its efficacy and safety for migraine.4 To our knowledge, this is the first report to document the use of acupuncture as a complementary therapy alongside conventional lamotrigine.