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What Is The Cause And Treatment For Hemiplegic Migrane?
Posted on
Tue, 19 Aug 2014
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Tue, 19 Aug 2014
Answered on
Thu, 4 Sep 2014
Last reviewed on
Question : My mum has hemiplegic migrane and really suffers with it. I know that there are two types familial and sporadic. I am worried that when I get to her age I will have the same thing passed down through genes. Is there any test you can have done to find out if you will have it in future?
Brief Answer:
Genetics of hemiplegic migraine
Detailed Answer:
Good evening Ms. XXXXXXX My name is Dr. Saghafi and I'd like to answer your question relating to the genetics of hemiplegic migraines.
Actually, the genetics of this entity of headache is complex and almost ridiculous because the information is literally in flux no less than on a monthly basis.
Because your mother has FHM (which type?) you have approximately a 50% of having it as do your siblings.
There are at least 3 chromosomes to which the 3 major types have been mapped and there is likely a 4th type as well as many other variations.
There are definitely commercial tests available that look for at least the major 3 types and some even test for a known 4th type as well. However, these tests are extremely expensive to run and most people simply bypass these tests which take up to 1 month to get results and learn how to deal with them if you were to occur.
Therefore, I would recommend that you first see a geneticist or a headache specialist neurologist. Either one can assist you in securing exactly which type of FHM you're interested in looking for and how to go about spending your money wisely. But remember, even if the tests come out positive for possession of the specific gene mutations there is only about an 80% chance that you will manifest symptoms of these headaches. And that's great news.
I don't know where you're located right now but I can tell you that standard laboratories such as XXXXXXX located in the U.S. and Canada do have an entire panel of these tests looking for each and every subtype of FHM but actually, it would be more efficient if the neurologist or geneticist told you exactly which 1 or 2 of the available tests should be obtained.
If you feel that this information has somehow helped you I'd appreciate some written feedback with a STAR RATING.
Also, if you've no further questions on this topic I'd also appreciate it very much if you would CLOSE THE QUERY on your end so that we have file this case for future reference and teaching purposes.
This query required 57 minutes of physician specific time in order to review, research, and document the final draft for envoy.
Genetics of hemiplegic migraine
Detailed Answer:
Good evening Ms. XXXXXXX My name is Dr. Saghafi and I'd like to answer your question relating to the genetics of hemiplegic migraines.
Actually, the genetics of this entity of headache is complex and almost ridiculous because the information is literally in flux no less than on a monthly basis.
Because your mother has FHM (which type?) you have approximately a 50% of having it as do your siblings.
There are at least 3 chromosomes to which the 3 major types have been mapped and there is likely a 4th type as well as many other variations.
There are definitely commercial tests available that look for at least the major 3 types and some even test for a known 4th type as well. However, these tests are extremely expensive to run and most people simply bypass these tests which take up to 1 month to get results and learn how to deal with them if you were to occur.
Therefore, I would recommend that you first see a geneticist or a headache specialist neurologist. Either one can assist you in securing exactly which type of FHM you're interested in looking for and how to go about spending your money wisely. But remember, even if the tests come out positive for possession of the specific gene mutations there is only about an 80% chance that you will manifest symptoms of these headaches. And that's great news.
I don't know where you're located right now but I can tell you that standard laboratories such as XXXXXXX located in the U.S. and Canada do have an entire panel of these tests looking for each and every subtype of FHM but actually, it would be more efficient if the neurologist or geneticist told you exactly which 1 or 2 of the available tests should be obtained.
If you feel that this information has somehow helped you I'd appreciate some written feedback with a STAR RATING.
Also, if you've no further questions on this topic I'd also appreciate it very much if you would CLOSE THE QUERY on your end so that we have file this case for future reference and teaching purposes.
This query required 57 minutes of physician specific time in order to review, research, and document the final draft for envoy.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Answered by
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