TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA: AN OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE WITH EMPHASIS ON MEDICAL MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Pain is a complex human psycho-physiological experience. Neuralgic pain is produced by a change in neurological structure or function rather than by the excitation of pain receptors that causes nociceptive pain. Neuralgic pain follows the path of a nerve that may give rise to the sensation of tooth pain which often is a diagnostic dilemma for dentist. Trigeminal neuralgia is a disorder of the trigeminal nerve that causes episodes of unilateral intense, stabbing, electric shock like pain in the areas of the face supplied by trigeminal nerve-lips, eyes, nose, scalp, forehead, upper and lower jaw. TN is not fatal, but is universally considered to be one of the most painful afflictions known. An early and accurate diagnosis is mandatory, as therapeutic interventions can reduce or eliminate pain attacks. Treatment of this debilitating condition may be varied, ranging from medical management to surgical interventions. This article deals about the etio-pathogenesis, clinical characterstics, diagnosis and treatment strategies for trigeminal neuralgia.