Abstract
Background Central pain mimicking trigeminal neuralgia (TN) as a result of lateral medullary infarction or Wallenberg syndrome has been rarely reported. Case Report We discuss a patient who presented with a lateral medullary infarct and shortly after developed facial pain mimicking TN. We also elaborate on the anatomical pathway of the trigeminal nerve explaining facial pain as a result of a lateral medullary lesion. Discussion Clinicians should be aware of this typical complication of lateral medullary infarct in order to attain proper management and work-up.
Highlights
Trigeminal neuralgia is a common form of facial pain that is characterized by paroxysmal and excruciating pain along the distribution of the trigeminal nerve
We discuss a case of a patient who developed classic symptoms of central pain mimicking trigeminal neuralgia (TN) shortly a er a lateral medullary infarct was diagnosed
E patient noted the concomitant onset of right “sharp-stabbing” intermittent pain merely hours a er the onset of unsteadiness. e pain occurred in the ophthalmic and maxillary distribution of the trigeminal nerve and was acutely worsened by cold temperature. He was diagnosed with central facial pain secondary to lateral medullary infarct. e pain initially improved with the administration of carbamazepine, which was discontinued a er hospital discharge due to adverse reactions
Summary
Central pain mimicking trigeminal neuralgia (TN) as a result of lateral medullary infarction or Wallenberg syndrome has been rarely reported. We discuss a patient who presented with a lateral medullary infarct and shortly a er developed facial pain mimicking TN. We elaborate on the anatomical pathway of the trigeminal nerve explaining facial pain as a result of a lateral medullary lesion. Clinicians should be aware of this typical complication of lateral medullary infarct in order to attain proper management and work-up
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