Low CSF met-enkephalin levels in cluster headache are elevated by acupuncture

Author(s): Ekman, R., Eriksson, M.

Journal/Book: Headache. 1989; 29(8): 494-497.

Abstract: Significantly lower met-enkephalin levels were found in CSF from cluster headache sufferers as compared to age-matched healthy volunteers, whereas it was not possible to demonstrate any clear-cut difference for beta-endorphin. CSF opioid levels may rise following manual or electroacupuncture. It was studied whether traditional Chinese (manual) acupuncture affected CSF levels of met-enkephalin or beta-endorphin in these patients, and to what extent this treatment would be beneficial for the headache. A significant rise in lumbar CSF met-enkephalin levels was found, whereas no clear change in beta-endorphin levels was obtained. The treatment was, however, of little value in preventing the headache.

Keyword(s): beta-Endorphin-cerebrospinal-fluid

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