Trigeminal Neuralgia

Question 1

Aetiology?

Answer 1

Thought to be due to compression of the nerve:

• idiopathic
• brain tumour
• MS
  
  • 5-10% of people with MS have it
• cerebral aneurysm
• cranial neuropathy

Question 2

Pattern?

Answer 2

90% unilateral, 10% bilateral

Question 3

Presentation?

Answer 3

• intense facial pain in the nerve distribution
  
  • pain is sharp, stabbing, shooting
  • comes on spontaneously and lasts anywhere from seconds to hours
• triggers for pain:
  
  • caffeine, cold, spicy food etc

Question 4

Rx?

Answer 4

1. Carbamazepine
2. Surgery to decompress / damage nerve