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Histopathology of superior turbinate mucosal contact in migraine: Preliminary findings

Dean M Clerico, Benjamin Keiser, Jordon Wagner

American Journal of Otolaryngology, 2025

Abstract

OBJECTIVE

To describe the histopathology of migraine-inducing mucosal compression between the superior turbinate and septum.

STUDY DESIGN

Observational case control series.

SETTING

Primary author's private practice.

METHODS

Superior turbinates in contact with the nasal septum in four migraine patients were excised, variously stained, and examined histologically. Superior turbinates free of contact with septum from three patients without migraine served as controls.

RESULTS

Compared to control turbinates, we found epithelial denudation, fibrosis, calcification, fewer glands, and nerve fiber hypertrophy in the mucosa of superior turbinates of migraine patients. All four of these patients improved substantially after superior turbinate resection.

CONCLUSION

Areas of mucosal contact/compression from superior turbinates of migraine patients show pathologic changes that are apparently responsible for migraine symptoms. This is the first study we know of that demonstrates pathologic changes in the turbinates of patients with mucosal contact headaches.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

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