Occipital neuralgia is cause of headache characterized by a stabbing paroxysmal pain.

What is it about?

Occipital neuralgia (ON) is an uncommon cause of headache, and it is characterized by a stabbing paroxysmal pain that radiates to the occipital region. This study includes a bibliographic survey and a case report. The etiology of this pathology can vary from traumas, infections, compressions of nerves or vertebrae, skull base surgeries, to degenerative changes and congenital anomalies. However, most of the time, the etiology is considered idiopathic. The diagnosis is essentially clinical. However, it is crucial that other types of primary headache are excluded. The treatment for ON may be based on nerve blocks, medications or surgeries. Among the surgical techniques available is neurectomy of the second spinal nerve.

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Why is it important?

The diagnosis is essentially clinical. However, it is crucial that other types of primary headache are excluded. The treatment for ON may be based on nerve blocks, medications or surgeries. Among the surgical techniques available is neurectomy of the second spinal nerve.