Direct current potential changes of the vagal nuclear area induced by trigeminal stimulation

To elucidate the mechanism of the Reilly syndrome (irritation syndrome), direct current (DC) potential changes in the medulla oblongata were investigated. Ipsilateral and contralateral trigeminal stimulation induced a DC potential shift above the vagal nuclear area in the medulla. Maxillary and mandibular nerve stimulation showed a summation effect. Continuous stimulation of the tooth pulp cavity by croton oil induced a progressively developed DC shift. DC potential change by trigeminal stimulation was accompanied by the same process of elevation of extracellular potassium concentration. These findings suggest that trigeminal stimulation increases the excitability of vagal nuclear neurons and consequently provokes the Reilly syndrome.