J. Izquierdo MD*, E. Balaguer*, D.Mon, Ll. Soler*.
Neurology Service, Capio Hospital General de Catalunya.
*University School of Medicine. Universitat Internacional de Catalunya.
INTRODUCTION
Migraine is considered as one of the most common secondary headaches. There are different etiopathogenic theories that include a food-related theory. Histamine is abundant in food and the ability to remove it varies from person to person. It is determined by an enzyme known as Diamine Oxidase (DAO). Our objective is to measure the activity of this enzyme in patients experiencing migraine.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
We selected patients who meet the criteria of the International Headache Society for the diagnose of migraine. The age was required to be from 18 to 65 years old, with informed consent for the collection of blood samples. DAO deficient activity is considered as such under 80 HDU/ml.
RESULTS
From July to October 2011 we selected 40 patients including 38 women (80%). DAO activity was reduced in 38 patients (95%). The average activity was 57.41 HDU/ml. The average age was 39.06 ± 10.82.
Conclusions
There is a high prevalence of DAO activity deficiency in patients with migraine. Providing this enzyme as a supplement may open a new way for the research on migraine treatment.
