Update on trigeminal neuralgia

Abstract

Trigeminal neuralgia leads to paroxysms of short-lasting but very severe pain. Between attacks, patients are usually asymptomatic, but a constant dull background pain may persist in some cases. The incidence of trigeminal neuralgia is 4.3 per 100,000 persons per year, with a slightly higher incidence for women (5.9 per 100,000) compared with men (3.4 per 100,000). There is a lack of certainty regarding the etiology and pathophysiology of trigeminal neuralgia. There are a wide range of medical and surgical treatments available. The preferred medical treatment for trigeminal neuralgia consists of anticonvulsant drugs, muscle relaxants and neuroleptic agents. Large-scaled placebo-controlled clinical trials are scarce. For patients refractory to medical therapy, Gasserian ganglion percutaneous techniques, γ-knife surgery and microvascular decompression are the most promising invasive treatment options. Continuous scientific research works towards a better understanding of trigeminal neuralgia and has accomplished a greater insight into the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms

Keywords::

• current and future treatment options
• epidemiology
• facial pain
• pathophysiology insights
• trigeminal neuralgia

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.