Trigeminal Neuralgia

Question 1

What is the pathophysiology of trigeminal neuralgia.

Answer 1

Pathophysiology is unknown.

Could be vascular compression leading to demyelination.

Question 2

What are the causes of trigeminal neuralgia. (5)

Answer 2

Usually idiopathic.
Can occur secondary to brain tumours, MS, cranial neuropathies, cerebral aneurysms (but this is rare without other neurological features).

Question 3

What are the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia.

Answer 3

Sudden, severe, unilateral electric shock like or stabbing pain typically felt on one side of the jaw or cheek.

Question 4

What side of the face does trigeminal neuralgia usually affect.

Answer 4

Usually affects the right side of the face.

Can affect the left side too (but this is less common).

Question 5

What are some triggers for trigeminal neuralgia. (6)

Answer 5

Talking. 
Chewing. 
Smiling. 
Brushing teeth. 
Touching the face. 
Swallowing.

Question 6

How often can a patient get attacks of trigeminal neuralgia.

Answer 6

They can have 100s of attacks per day.

The attacks occur at varying intervals.

Question 7

How long do trigeminal neuralgia attacks last for. (4)

Answer 7

They can last for days, weeks, or months at a time.

They then remit for months or years.

Question 8

When do trigeminal neuralgia attacks tend not to occur.

Answer 8

During sleep.

Question 9

What is found on a neurological exam of a patient with trigeminal neuralgia.

Answer 9

The neurological examination is normal.