Familial Hemiplegic Migraines and Baseline Neuropsychological Testing: A Case Report.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the neuropsychological correlates and implications of familial hemiplegic migraines (FHMs).

BACKGROUND

FMH is a rare, autosomal dominant subtype of migraine that only occurs in 0.01% of the population. Little is known about the neuropsychological impact of FHMs; however, cognitive impairment associated with cerebellar syndrome has been identified in some cases.

METHOD

A single case study involving a 24-year-old male who recently endured an atypical, prolonged FHM episode.

RESULTS

The patient's overall neuropsychological functioning was intact with low average semantic fluency and processing speed, and mild indications of executive dysfunction.

CONCLUSION

Baseline and serial neuropsychological testing in individuals with FHM may help identify the potential progression and course of cognitive impairment associated with this condition.