Langerhans cell histiocytosis (eosinophilic granuloma) of the skull mimicking nummular headache. Report of two cases

Abstract

Background Nummular headache is a rare, recently described topographic headache defined by the circumscribed coin-shaped area of pain. It is classified as a primary headache. There is debate about whether it is due to a peripheral or central disturbance, and its relationship to migraine.

Case reports We report two patients with presumed nummular headache secondary to Langerhans cell histiocytosis, both with resolution of their headaches after surgical resection.

Conclusion Imaging in patients with clinical features of nummular headache is recommended, as this and other cases highlight that it may be symptomatic. There are no distinguishing clinical features to separate nummular headache from secondary mimics, and treatment of the underlying cause may be curative.