History and exam
Key diagnostic factors
common
stereotyped paroxysms of facial pain
Required for diagnosis. Pattern is important, as restriction to trigeminal distributions and quality, duration, and consistency of pain are critical for diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia. The pain associated with TN is typically described as intense, sharp, superficial, stabbing, or burning in quality. Pain is usually unilateral, stereotyped, and lasts seconds to minutes.
attacks triggered by facial or oral mechanical stimulation
Triggers such as tooth brushing, eating, cold, and touch are common.
presence of risk factors
Key risk factors include increased age and multiple sclerosis.
Other diagnostic factors
uncommon
sensory/motor changes
Suggestive of secondary cause, e.g., multiple sclerosis, tumour.
Risk factors
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