Olfactory hallucinations during migraine in an adolescent with an MRI temporal lobe lesion

Abstract

Objective. - To report the first example of an abnormal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test in a patient with migraine and olfactory hallucinations and to provide additional evidence for a possible role of the temporal lobe in migraine. Background. - The relationship between the temporal lobe and migraine with or without hallucinations is unclear and continues to evolve. Clinical and functional neuroimaging studies (positron emission tomography/single photon emission computed tomography) have lent support to the possibility of a relationship. Anatomical neuro-imaging with computed tomography has previously been normal. Methods. - The history and findings of an adolescent with migraine and olfactory hallucinations is reported. Results. - Brain MRI demonstrated a mass in the temporal lobe. Conclusions. - Magnetic resonance imaging should be considered in patients with olfactory hallucinations and migraine. In addition, the role of the temporal lobe in migraine warrants further study.