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Several studies have indicated that a relationship exists between patent foramen ovale (PFO) and the incidence of migraine; however, the nature of the relationship and whether PFO closure could be used as a treatment for migraine are controversial. In this Viewpoint, Gian Paolo Anzola lists evidence in support of a relationship between PFO and migraine and suggests that, subject to further trials, PFO closure could in the future benefit some patients with migraine.
In this Viewpoint, Markus Schürks and Hans-Christoph Diener make the case that patent foramen ovale closure should not be used as a treatment for migraine. They argue that the causal link between patent foramen ovale and migraine has not been verified and highlight shortcomings in the existing data.
Mirror neurons are motor neurons that discharge both when an individual performs a given motor act and when they observe another individual performing the same act. As Rizzolatti et al. discuss in this Review, the study of the mirror system is providing important insights into the mechanisms that underlie the symptoms of autism, and is also facilitating the development of new neurorehabilitation strategies.
Pain management is particularly problematic in infants. Fitzgerald and Walker detail the many challenges presented by a developing pain system for the detection and treatment of pain. They then describe the ways in which knowledge of the neurophysiological and neuropharmacological processes that underlie infant pain can improve future management of this vulnerable patient group.
Maternal herpes simplex virus encephalitis is a life-threatening condition for the mother and fetus. To treat the maternal disease and prevent infection in the neonate, a multidisciplinary approach is needed. In this Case Study, Sellner and colleagues demonstrate how with early diagnosis, prompt initiation of antiviral treatment, and suitable neurocritical care, a favorable outcome can be achieved in both mother and child.
In this Training Matters article, Samuel Frank highlights deficiencies in the current funding system for graduate medical education in the US, and discusses ideas for reform.
