[Trigeminal trophic syndrome: 2 patients with a non-healing ulcer on the ala nasi]

Two female patients, aged 74 and 91 years respectively, had a skin ulcer on a nostril and ipsilateral sensory paralysis in the area covered by the N. trigeminus. This is known as trigeminal trophic syndrome. It may be caused by (iatrogenic) damage to the trigeminal nerve by chronic manipulation of the senseless skin. Only in case of doubt, histological examination of a tissue sample is advised to exclude malignancy. The main treatment consists of instructing the patient not to manipulate the skin. In some patients surgical reconstruction is necessary.