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Meningioma as a cause of chronic orofacial pain: case reports
R J Cook1, I Sharif, M Escudier
1Department Oral Medicine & Diagnostics, Kings College Dental Institute, Floor 22 Guy's Tower, Guy's Hospital, London, SE1 9RT, England. Richard_james.cook@kcl.ac.uk
Abstract:
We describe two middle-aged men whose chronic orofacial pain was caused by underlying meningiomas. In both cases treatment was delayed because evolving dentoalveolar and possible chronic idiopathic facial pain had been investigated before presentation. Subsequent disturbances of the ipsilateral VII (and later VIII) nerves prompted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of one patient, while the possibility of a central lesion was recognised at presentation in the second, whose atypical focus of trigeminal neuralgia was labile within the ipsilateral distribution of the trigeminal nerve. Both cases highlight the importance of considering proximal intracranial lesions as a possible cause of atypical or refractory chronic orofacial pain so unnecessary delay in the diagnosis of otherwise operable tumours can be avoided.
Insights
Meningiomas can cause chronic orofacial pain, delaying diagnosis. Early consideration of intracranial tumors is crucial for timely treatment of facial pain.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Oncology
Background:
- Chronic orofacial pain often leads to extensive dental and neurological investigations.
- Delayed diagnosis of underlying causes can result in prolonged patient suffering and treatment delays.
Observation:
- Two middle-aged men presented with chronic orofacial pain attributed to meningiomas.
- Initial investigations focused on dentoalveolar issues and idiopathic facial pain, delaying the identification of intracranial lesions.
Findings:
- Meningiomas were the underlying cause of chronic orofacial pain in both cases.
- Nerve disturbances (VII and VIII cranial nerves) and atypical trigeminal neuralgia prompted further investigation, revealing the tumors.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering proximal intracranial lesions in refractory orofacial pain.
- Emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis of operable tumors to prevent delayed treatment and improve patient outcomes.
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