[Glossopharyngeal nerve neuralgia: not just a sore throat]

In this article we describe six cases of glossopharyngeal neuralgia. The characteristic attacks of lancinating pain in throat, ear and tongue can be accompanied by symptoms such as coughing, hoarseness, stridor and fainting. These symptoms can also occur without the pain, which may lead to frequent misdiagnosis and unnecessary investigations. The drugs of choice are carbamazepine, phenytoin and lithium. Persisting symptoms may require an operation.