International Classification of Headache Disorders

International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) is a detailed and comprehensive classification system for headache disorders, developed by the International Headache Society (IHS). The ICHD provides a framework for diagnosing and classifying headaches, which is essential for clinical practice and research.

History

The first edition of the ICHD was published in 1988 by the IHS, a professional society of health care providers and scientists specifically dedicated to the study of headache disorders. The ICHD has since been revised and updated, with the third edition (ICHD-3) currently in use.

Structure

The ICHD is structured into three main parts: primary headaches, secondary headaches, and painful cranial neuropathies, other facial pains, and other headaches. Each part is further divided into chapters, which are then subdivided into sections and subsections.

Primary Headaches

Primary headaches are those not caused by another condition. They include migraine, tension-type headache, cluster headache, and other primary headache disorders.

Secondary Headaches

Secondary headaches are those caused by another condition, such as infection, injury, or a medical or psychiatric disorder. They are classified according to the underlying condition.

Painful Cranial Neuropathies, Other Facial Pains, and Other Headaches

This part includes conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia, other neuralgias, and other types of headaches not classified elsewhere.

Use in Clinical Practice and Research

The ICHD is widely used in clinical practice and research to diagnose and classify headache disorders. It provides clear diagnostic criteria for each type of headache, which helps to ensure consistent diagnosis and treatment. It also facilitates research by providing a common language for researchers to use in studying headache disorders.

Criticisms and Controversies

While the ICHD is widely accepted and used, it has also been subject to criticism. Some critics argue that it is too complex and difficult to use in everyday clinical practice. Others argue that it does not adequately capture the complexity and diversity of headache disorders.

See Also

• International Headache Society
• Migraine
• Tension-type headache
• Cluster headache
• Trigeminal neuralgia

References

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