Can a blood test assess for migraine?

One of the most active areas of research in headache medicine is the search for a reliable diagnostic test to confirm headache disorders like migraine. Currently, diagnoses are based on clinical presentation and the exclusion of other causes, unlike conditions such as heart attacks, which can be confirmed through tests like EKGs and echocardiograms. Unfortunately, no equivalent test exists for migraine.

Numerous research groups are working to solve this challenge, with many focusing on blood-based biomarkers that may indicate a migraine diagnosis. Some of the most studied markers include calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide-38 (PACAP-38), substance P (SP), and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). A recent study by Orak et al. One study in Turkey found that children with migraine without aura had elevated VIP levels compared to controls.

While these findings are promising, it's still unclear whether VIP, or any single marker, is sensitive or specific enough to serve as a standalone diagnostic tool. More comprehensive studies and standardized methodologies are needed to determine whether one or a combination of these neuropeptides can be reliably used to diagnose migraine. If you’re concern you may be suffering from migraine or another headache disorder, be sure to reach out to a headache specialist!

References:

1.         Orak SA, Polat M, Pak M, et al. Can serum neuropeptide levels help diagnose pediatric migraine? A prospective case-control study. Headache. 2025.