Diagnostics and treatment of trigeminal neuralgia
Maarbjerg, S.; Heinskou, T.B.; Wolfram, F.; Rochat, P.; Brennum, J.; Bendtsen, L.
Ugeskrift for Laeger 178(29)
2016
ISSN/ISBN: 1603-6824 PMID: 27460468 Document Number: 691000
Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is characterized by unilateral evoked short-lasting intense pain paroxysms in the face. A concomitant persistent background pain is frequently present. Neurovascular contact causing displacement or atrophy of the trigeminal nerve is important to TN aetiology. TN can also be secondary to a space-occupying lesion or multiple sclerosis. Early high-quality magnetic resonance imaging is mandatory as a part of the work-up. First-choice treatment is medical. Medically refractory patients are referred to neurosurgery. Nationwide in Denmark, there is a need for structured and uniform treatment of TN.