In , CSD is a wave of neuronal depolarization moving across the cortex at 2–6 mm/min, followed by prolonged suppression of neural activity. CSD activates the trigeminovascular system and triggers aura (visual, sensory, or speech disturbances).
Diagnosis is clinical. There is no blood test or MRI to confirm migraine. The "POUND" mnemonic is useful for differential diagnosis: what is episodic migraine
CGRP is the "superstar" of current migraine science. Levels spike during an attack. Modern therapies (gepants and monoclonal antibodies) specifically target this peptide. In , CSD is a wave of neuronal