Is trigeminal neuralgia considered a neurological disease?
Trigeminal neuralgia is a rare neurological condition that causes chronic and severe facial pain. While an exact number is unknown, researchers estimate that between 10,000 to 15,000 new cases of TN are diagnosed every year. Not many physicians have experience diagnosing and treating the condition.
What is refractory trigeminal neuralgia?
Hence, the definition of ‘refractory trigeminal neuralgia’ is easy: a patient with TN that is a non-responder to either of these two drugs, or a patient that cannot take them because of specific counter indications or who cannot reach the therapeutic dosage because of excessive adverse effects.
What is classical trigeminal neuralgia?
TN is a form of neuropathic pain (pain associated with nerve injury or nerve lesion.) The typical or “classic” form of the disorder (called “Type 1” or TN1) causes extreme, sporadic, sudden burning or shock-like facial pain that lasts anywhere from a few seconds to as long as two minutes per episode.
Can trigeminal neuralgia lead to stroke?
Another more speculative mechanism is that the increased afferent trigeminal nerve activity in patients with TN could have effects on the trigeminovascular system leading to vascular changes which could be associated with an increased risk of stroke.
What is sphenopalatine ganglion neuralgia?
Sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) neuralgia is a complex disease characterized by chronic head and neck pain, often accompanied by autonomic features. Although symptoms are highly variable, patients typically experience dull headaches associated with pain in the maxillary arch and teeth.
What is CyberKnife treatment for trigeminal neuralgia?
CyberKnife radiosurgery is one of the most accurate treatment modalities for trigeminal neuralgia. The CyberKnife System works by delivering high doses of radiation to destroy the pain fibers in the nerve.
What is the difference between Trigeminal Neuralgia and Atypical Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Though there will be pain-free breaks in between episodes, this can continue for up to two hours. Atypical (Type 2) trigeminal neuralgia. This will be less painful and intense but more widespread. You’ll likely feel constant pain, notably stabbing and/or burning sensations, along with persistent aches and pains.