Trigeminal Neuralgia: Current Concepts in the Medical Management

JOURNAL TITLE: World Journal of Dentistry

Author
1. E Ceena Denny
2. K Jeena Priya
ISSN
0976-6006
DOI
10.5005/jp-journals-10015-1008
Volume
1
Issue
1
Publishing Year
2010
Pages
4
Author Affiliations
    1. Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal University, Mangalore, Karnataka India
    1. Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal University, Mangalore Karnataka, India
  • Article keywords

    Abstract

    Trigeminal neuralgia (TN), also known as tic douloureux, is characterized by recurrent attacks of lancinating pain in the trigeminal nerve distribution. Typically, brief attacks are triggered by talking, chewing, teeth brushing, shaving, a light touch, or even a cool breeze. The pain is nearly always unilateral, and it may occur repeatedly throughout the day. The condition is characterized by intermittent one-sided facial pain. Trigeminal neuralgia can be classified based on the symptoms as typical and atypical trigeminal and according to etiology as primary or idiopathic and secondary or symptomatic. An early and accurate diagnosis of TN is important, because therapeutic interventions can reduce or eliminate pain attacks in the large majority of TN patients. Although various drugs have been used in the management of TN such as baclofen, gabapentin, phenytoin sodium, carbamazepine remains the gold standard drug of choice. Surgical approaches to pain management are performed when medication cannot control pain or patients cannot tolerate the adverse effects of the medication.

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