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Migraine — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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HardAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareMigraineUSMLE Step 3

A 33-year-old has recurrent unilateral throbbing headaches lasting 8 to 24 hours with nausea, photophobia, and worsening with activity. Neurologic examination is normal between attacks. Which diagnosis is most likely?

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Correct answer: D — Migraine

The recurrent throbbing attacks with nausea, photophobia, and activity worsening are migraine. The time course and normal interictal examination make the acute vascular and inflammatory alternatives unlikely.

Reference: International Classification of Headache Disorders: Migraine without Aura: https://ichd-3.org/1-migraine/1-1-migraine-without-aura/