Trigeminal trophic syndrome: A report of two cases with review of literature

Abstract

Trigeminal trophic syndrome, a rare cause of facial ulceration, is the consequence of damage to the trigeminal nerve or its central sensory connections. We report two cases of trigeminal trophic syndrome, complications of cerebral vascular accidents. A 65-year-old woman complained of numerous and progressive ulcers of the right side of her face of 2 month's duration. A 67-year-old woman presented with an ulcer of the ala nasi of 10 week's duration. This syndrome most commonly occurs in women with an average age of 57 years. About 100 cases are reported in the literature. The diagnosis is made on clinical grounds, and is suggested when loss of sensation occurs in association with unilateral facial ulceration, especially involving the ala nasi. Once the ulcers appear, they are extremely persistent.