ICHD

ICHD or International Classification of Headache Disorders is a detailed and comprehensive classification system for headache disorders, developed by the International Headache Society (IHS). The ICHD is considered the "gold standard" for the diagnosis and classification of headache disorders and is used worldwide in both clinical and research settings.

History

The first edition of the ICHD was published in 1988 by the IHS. It was the first attempt to classify all types of headache disorders in a systematic way. The second edition (ICHD-2) was published in 2004, and the third edition (ICHD-3) was published in 2018.

Structure

The ICHD is divided into three main parts:

1. Part one covers the primary headache disorders, which are disorders that are not caused by another condition. This includes migraines, tension-type headaches, and cluster headaches.
2. Part two covers the secondary headache disorders, which are headaches caused by another condition, such as an infection, a head injury, or a vascular disorder.
3. Part three covers the cranial neuralgias, central and primary facial pain, and other headaches.

Each type of headache is defined by specific diagnostic criteria. The criteria are based on the symptoms of the headache, its duration, frequency, and other factors.

Use

The ICHD is used by clinicians and researchers to diagnose and classify headache disorders. It is also used in epidemiological studies of headache disorders, and in the development and testing of new treatments for headaches.

Criticism

While the ICHD is widely used and respected, it has also been criticized. Some critics argue that the classification system is too complex and difficult to use in everyday clinical practice. Others argue that the diagnostic criteria for some types of headaches are too strict, which can lead to underdiagnosis.

See also

• International Headache Society
• Migraine
• Tension-type headache
• Cluster headache

ICHD Resources
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