Clinique de la névralgie faciale classique

Abstract

The term classical trigeminal neuralgia is used because, according to current evidence, classical trigeminal neuralgia is caused by neurovascular compression, most frequently by the superior cerebellar artery. Classical trigeminal neuralgia usually appears in the second or third divisions. The pain is never unilateral, but it may rarely occur bilaterally. Following a painful paroxysm, there is usually a refractory period during which pain cannot be triggered. When very severe, the pain often evokes contraction of the muscle of the face on the affected side (tic douloureux). Mild autonomic symptoms such as lacrimation and/or redness of the eye may be present. The duration of pain attacks can change over time and become more prolonged as well as severe. Between paroxysms, most patients are asymptomatic. The International Headache Society criteria for diagnosing classical trigeminal neuralgia are useful.