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Published on: May 10, 2017
Neoplastic trigeminal neuropathy: presentation of 7 cases
Miguel Peñarrocha-Diago1, Elena Mora-Escribano, José V Bagán
1Medical and Dental School, University of Valencia. miguel.Penarrrocha@uv.es
Abstract:
Trigeminal neuropathy of neoplastic origin accounts for a small percentage of trigeminal neuropathies, though the prognosis may be very poor. It is important to discard neoplastic processes in patients with numbness of the trigeminal territory. We present 7 cases of trigeminal neuropathy secondary to tumors: in four cases there were antecedents of systemic neoplastic disease, while in the remaining three cases neuropathy was the first manifestation of the tumor. The lesion was located in the mandible in three cases, in the region of the skull base in one patient, and in the brainstem and brain in one case each. In one case the lesion level could not be identified. The course was very poor in 5 cases. Recovery was only recorded in one patient in whom the symptoms were seen to disappear after acoustic nerve neurinoma resection. The lesions underlying neoplastic trigeminal neuropathy can be located at any point along the trajectory of the trigeminal nerve, and their prognosis is very poor.
Insights
Neoplastic trigeminal neuropathy, often presenting as facial numbness, has a poor prognosis. Early diagnosis is crucial as tumors can occur anywhere along the trigeminal nerve pathway.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
Background:
- Trigeminal neuropathy can arise from neoplastic causes, although this is uncommon.
- Prognosis for neoplastic trigeminal neuropathy is often poor, necessitating its exclusion in affected patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze cases of trigeminal neuropathy secondary to tumors.
- To describe the clinical presentation, tumor location, and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of seven patients with trigeminal neuropathy due to tumors.
- Review of patient history, tumor location, and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Five out of seven patients had a poor prognosis.
- Tumor locations varied, including the mandible, skull base, brainstem, and brain.
- In three cases, neuropathy was the initial sign of an underlying tumor.
- One patient experienced symptom resolution after acoustic nerve neurinoma resection.
Conclusions:
- Neoplastic trigeminal neuropathy can manifest with tumors located anywhere along the trigeminal nerve.
- The prognosis for neoplastic trigeminal neuropathy is generally very poor.
- Prompt investigation for neoplastic causes is essential in patients presenting with trigeminal neuropathy.
