Trigeminal neuralgia Flashcards
what is the definition of trigeminal neuralgia?
A. At least three attacks unilateral facial pain fulfilling B and C
B. Occurring in one or more distributions of the trigeminal nerve, with no radiation beyond the trigeminal distribution
C. Pain has at least three of the following four characteristics: Reoccuring in paroxysmal attacks from a fraction of a second to 2 minutes, Severe intensity, Electric shock like, shooting, stabbing or sharp
4. Precipitated by innocuous stimuli to the affected side of the face
D. No clinically evident neurological deficit
E. Not better attributed to another diagnosis
what is the first line treatment for trigeminal neuralgia?
ANTICONVULSANTS - carbamazepine: 200 mg/day orally initially given in 1-2 divided doses, usual maintenance dose is 400-1200 mg/day given in 2 divided doses
