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Trigeminal neuralgia

An evidence-bounded guide to recurrent electric-shock facial pain, classical and secondary causes, MRI, medicines, and procedures.

trigeminal neuralgia · tic douloureux

MONDO:0008599Public QA completeSource-bound · 4

Disease at a glance

Start with the essentials, then explore the patient and research views.

Public revision · 8d7e0aaa7d04

Disease class
Trigeminal neuralgia causes recurrent severe pain on one side of the face in trigeminal-nerve distributions.
Core mechanism
Typical attacks are sudden electric-shock-like pains lasting from a fraction of a second to about two minutes.
Genes or cause
Chewing, speaking, washing, toothbrushing, or light touch can trigger attacks.
Typical features
Classical disease is often associated with vascular compression of the nerve root; secondary disease can result from multiple sclerosis or a tumor.
Variability
Persistent pain between attacks or sensory loss can coexist, making subtype and differential assessment important.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis centers on pain location, quality, triggers, and neurologic examination.
Management
Brain MRI is recommended to assess secondary causes and, when planning surgery, neurovascular relationships.
Treatment and research
Dental pain, temporomandibular disorders, cluster headache, and other neuropathic facial pains require consideration.
Reading evidence
Carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine is generally recommended as initial drug therapy.
Key caution
Medication requires monitoring for interactions, hyponatremia, blood or liver abnormalities, and individual risks.

For patients and families

A structured guide for understanding the disease and preparing for clinical conversations.

At a glance

Trigeminal neuralgia causes recurrent severe pain on one side of the face in trigeminal-nerve distributions.

Classical disease is often associated with vascular compression of the nerve root; secondary disease can result from multiple sclerosis or a tumor.

How the disease works

Typical attacks are sudden electric-shock-like pains lasting from a fraction of a second to about two minutes.

Chewing, speaking, washing, toothbrushing, or light touch can trigger attacks.

Why experiences vary

Persistent pain between attacks or sensory loss can coexist, making subtype and differential assessment important.

Diagnosis and management

Diagnosis centers on pain location, quality, triggers, and neurologic examination.

Treatment status

Brain MRI is recommended to assess secondary causes and, when planning surgery, neurovascular relationships.

Dental pain, temporomandibular disorders, cluster headache, and other neuropathic facial pains require consideration.

Reading clinical trials

Procedure choice considers MRI findings, comorbidity, recurrence and sensory-loss risks, and patient preference.

Topics for a clinical visit

Clinical discussion should cover attack duration and triggers, sensory findings, MRI, medication safety, and procedural benefits and risks.

Medical notice

This material is for disease education and is not a personal diagnosis or treatment instruction.

Evidence and sources

A trial registry status does not establish efficacy or regulatory approval.