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Mefloquine-induced trigeminal sensory neuropathy
S Watt-Smith1, K Mehta, C Scully
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Orthodontics, John Radcliffe Hospital and University College London, United Kingdom.
Summary
Sudden lip numbness, a trigeminal sensory neuropathy, was linked to the antimalarial drug mefloquine. This case highlights drug-induced neuropathy as a potential cause of orofacial sensory changes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Trigeminal sensory neuropathy can stem from various causes including trauma, infections, and neoplasms.
- Drug-induced neuropathy is a recognized but less common etiology.
Observation:
- A patient presented with acute onset of sensory impairment affecting the lip.
- This neurological deficit was localized to the trigeminal nerve distribution.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms were attributed to the use of mefloquine, an antimalarial medication.
- This represents the first documented instance of mefloquine causing sensory disturbances in the orofacial region.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider mefloquine as a potential cause of trigeminal sensory neuropathy.
- This finding expands the differential diagnosis for drug-induced neurological side effects.