Is Headache Going to the CATS?

Computed Tomography in the Headache Patient: Is Routine Evaluation Really Necessary?

“…Physician visits for the evaluation of headache are estimated to exceed 16 million per year in the United States alone. 6,[9][10][11] In our institution, headache is one of the most frequent reasons for CT scanning of the head, comprising 12% of all such requests. 2 Ninety-five percent of headaches are classified as functional and have little potential for physical disability.…”

“…7,8 A careful history and a neurologic examination have long been stressed as key elements in the accurate diagnosis of headache. 6,[9][10][11] In our institution, headache is one of the most frequent reasons for CT scanning of the head, comprising 12% of all such requests. The principal and most frequent diagnoses given by referring clinicians were intracranial mass lesions and subarachnoid hemorrhage.…”

The Role of Computed Tomography in the Diagnostic Work‐Up of Headache Patients in Nigeria

“…Routine CT evaluation of a patient with headache may not be necessary if a proper history is taken from patient and an appropriate physical examination performed to elicit the presence of a neurologic abnormality. Stein 19 pointed out that ordinarily, the headache history is the most helpful tool in differentiating functional headaches from organic ones. If organic disease is suspected, direct resort to the CT scan is justifiable.…”