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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
09:35
Subcutaneous Trigeminal Nerve Field Stimulation for Refractory Facial Pain
Published on: May 10, 2017
[Trigeminal autonomic cephalgias. After initial diagnosis, consider secondary causes]
M Rosenberg-Nordmann1, A Berthele, T R Tölle
1Neurologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Technische Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Ismaninger Strasse, Munich, Germany. nmirjam@gmx.net
Der Nervenarzt
|April 16, 2009
Summary
Trigeminal autonomic cephalgias (TAC) may be caused by underlying structural lesions, even with typical symptoms. A thorough diagnostic evaluation, including neuroimaging, is recommended for initial TAC presentations.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Headache Medicine
Background:
- Trigeminal autonomic cephalgias (TAC) are primary headache disorders.
- The role of neuroimaging in diagnosing TAC is debated.
- Previous reports suggest structural lesions can cause TAC.
Observation:
- This study presents two new cases of symptomatic TAC.
- The patients exhibited classic clinical presentations of TAC.
- Despite typical symptoms, both cases were linked to structural lesions.
Findings:
- A classic clinical presentation of TAC does not rule out a symptomatic cause.
- Instrumental procedures like neuroimaging are crucial for identifying underlying pathologies.
- Symptomatic TACs can mimic primary headache syndromes.
Implications:
- Advocates for systematic diagnostic evaluation, including neuroimaging, for all new TAC cases.
- Highlights the importance of considering structural lesions in TAC diagnosis.
- Suggests revised diagnostic protocols for trigeminal autonomic cephalgias.
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