Trigeminal Neuralgia

Question 1

Define

Answer 1

neuralgia involving one or more of the branches of the trigeminal nerves, often causing severe pain

Question 2

Cause

Answer 2

• Thought to be due to compression of the trigeminal nerve by a loop of artery or vein
• 5-10% of cases are thought to be due to tumours, MS or skull base abnormalities

Question 3

Epidemiology

Answer 3

• Peak incidence: 50-60 yrs
• Prevalence increases with age
• More common in FEMALES
• Some familial component

Question 4

Symptoms

Answer 4

Sudden, unilateral, brief, stabbing pain in the distribution or one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve

Recurrent

Pain lasts from a few seconds to a couple of mins

Periods of remission can vary

Some experience preceding symptoms (e.g. numbness, tingling)

Pain is described as being ‘shock-like’

Triggers

• Vibration
• Skin contact
• Brushing teeth
• Oral intake
• Exposure to wind

Question 5

Signs

Question 6

Investigations

Answer 6

Diagnosis is CLINICAL

If there is doubt over the underlying cause, specialists may request an MRI brain scan