Case series of HaNDL syndrome responding to valproic acid

Aydinlar E., Ertas M.

Cephalalgia Reports, vol.5, 2022 (Scopus) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 5
  • Publication Date: 2022
  • Doi Number: 10.1177/25158163221084274
  • Journal Name: Cephalalgia Reports
  • Journal Indexes: Scopus, EMBASE, Directory of Open Access Journals
  • Keywords: CSF lymphocytosis, HaNDL syndrome, headache, treatment, valproic acid
  • Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University Affiliated: No

Abstract

© The Author(s) 2022.Objective: We report a case series of patients diagnosed with the syndrome of transient headache and neurological deficits with cerebrospinal fluid lymphocytosis (HaNDL) responding to high dose Valproic acid. Background: HaNDL syndrome is an infrequent entity, presenting with neurological impairment episodes and severe headache. A treatment to prevent the attacks has not been proposed yet. Results: We describe 6 patients with a definite diagnosis of HaNDL, responding to Valproic acid 1000–1500 mg/day. Conclusion: Although HaNDL’s self-limiting nature, episodes may cause important disability and can last up to 3 months. Valproic acid may be a good choice to prevent attacks due to its effect on cortical depression and fast titration.