Evaluation of Platelet Serotonin Levels in Migraine without Aura

Abstract

Objectives: The relation between migraine and serotonin levels is not clear. Plasma serotonin levels in migraineurs were studied in previous studies. However, in the current literature, it is stated that measuring serotonin level in platelets will give more reliable results.
Methods: Thirty female migraine without aura patients who have been diagnosed according to criteria of International Headache Society and 20 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. The Hamilton depression scale (HAM-D) was applied to all subjects and the ones who have 10 and above were not considered. Fasting venous blood samples were taken from subjects in the morning. Platelet rich and poor plasma were prepared. The samples measured with high performance liquid chromatography and platelet serotonin concentration was calculated.
Results: Our results suggest that migraineurs have significantly low platelet serotonin concentration than the controls. The ratio of family history of migraine in patient group is clearly higher than controls. HAM-D scores in migraineurs were significantly higher in control group. Although, there was a weak correlation between low serotonin levels and attack duration and number, there was no statistical significance.
Conclusion: Our results suggest that the role of heredity and low serotonin levels in migraine pathogenesis. Despite, all subjects enrolled in the study had scores under depression level, HAM-D scores were higher in migraineurs than controls. It may indicate the presence of subclinical depression associated with low serotonin levels in migraineurs. Extensive studies including both serotonin and other markers during pain and pain free periods are needed.