Trigeminal neuralgia

Introduction to Trigeminal neuralgia

Welcome to the Trigeminal neuralgia subsection of the Neurology for the MSRA course.

This section is designed to provide comprehensive and structured learning materials to help you understand and master the topic of Trigeminal neuralgia for the MSRA.

Resources for Trigeminal neuralgia:

  1. Trigeminal neuralgia Revision Notes for MSRA: Detailed and concise traditional revision notes covering all essential aspects of Trigeminal neuralgia, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. These notes are designed using UK NICE guidelines. Use the notes to gain an initial understanding of the topic.
  2. Trigeminal neuralgia Flashcards for MSRA: Interactive flashcards to help you memorise key facts and concepts about Trigeminal neuralgia. These are perfect for quick reviews and reinforcing your knowledge.
  3. Trigeminal neuralgia Accordion Q&A Notes for the MSRA: A unique feature where you can test your understanding of Trigeminal neuralgia with question-and-answer style revision notes. This format helps in active learning and retention of important information.
  4. Trigeminal neuralgia Rapid Fire Quiz for MSRA: A short quiz to test your knowledge and recall of Trigeminal neuralgia-related concepts. This is an excellent way to assess your progress and identify areas that need further review.

We hope you find these resources helpful and engaging as you prepare for the MSRA.

Key Points about Trigeminal neuralgia

  • Definition: Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain disorder characterised by sudden, severe, stabbing pain along the distribution of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V), typically affecting one side of the face.
  • Causes:
    • Compression of the trigeminal nerve by a blood vessel (usually the superior cerebellar artery).
    • Multiple sclerosis or other conditions that cause demyelination of the nerve.
    • Rarely, tumours compressing the trigeminal nerve.
  • Symptoms:
    • Recurrent episodes of sudden, sharp facial pain lasting seconds to minutes.
    • Triggered by light touch, chewing, talking, or brushing teeth.
    • Pain is usually unilateral and follows the distribution of one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve.
  • Investigations:
    • Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the history and presentation.
    • MRI may be used to rule out secondary causes (e.g., tumours or multiple sclerosis plaques).
    • Neurological examination is often normal between episodes.
  • Management:
    • First-line treatment includes anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine.
    • Surgical options like microvascular decompression may be considered in refractory cases.
    • Other options include radiofrequency ablation or stereotactic radiosurgery (gamma knife).
  • Complications:
    • Medication side effects, including drowsiness and dizziness from anticonvulsants.
    • Recurrent pain episodes can significantly impact quality of life.
    • Surgical complications may include facial numbness or weakness.

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Free MSRA Podcast: Trigeminal neuralgia