What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• SUNA (Short-Lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform Headache Attacks with Cranial Autonomic Symptoms)

What are Short-Lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform Headache Attacks with Cranial Autonomic Symptoms? (Definition/Background Information)

• Short-Lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform Headache Attacks with Cranial Autonomic Symptoms (SUNA) is a form of short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks, which are subtypes of a large group of disorders collectively termed trigeminal-autonomic cephalalgias (TACs). TACs are uncommon primary headache disorders; the term “primary” indicating that a clear cause for the condition remains unidentified
• In Short-Lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform Headache Attacks with Cranial Autonomic Symptoms, the headache attacks are moderate-to-severe, occur at least once daily, lasting from a few seconds to even 10 minutes, and only involve one side of the head (termed hemicrania). The head pain may be described as a stabbing pain, with either single or multiple stabs being felt by the individual with SUNA
• The pain may either involve the side of the head (above the ear) or the region around/above the eyes, or simultaneously all of these regions. Apart from the pain, Short-Lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform Headache Attacks with Cranial Autonomic Symptoms may be marked by redness of the eye or increased tearing. Sometimes, there is an absence of both of these symptoms
• There are two variants of SUNA, namely:
  • Episodic Short-Lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform Headache Attacks with Cranial Autonomic Symptoms
  • Chronic Short-Lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform Headache Attacks with Cranial Autonomic Symptoms
• Even though rare, individuals of any age group, gender, race, or ethnicity may be at risk for short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks. However, most cases are noted during adulthood

The criteria for diagnosis of Short-Lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform Headache Attacks with Cranial Autonomic Symptoms as outlined by the International Headache Society (IHS) is given below:

• Attacks fulfilling criteria for “short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks”, and the criterion below
• Either one or none of the following:
  • Conjunctival injection
  • Lacrimation (tearing)

(Source: International Headache Society Classification ICHD-3, London, United Kingdom)