Prevalence of trigeminal neuralgia in Jincheng, China

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a debilitating neuropathic pain disorder that affects the trigeminal nerve, often causing intense facial pain. The prevalence and epidemiology of TN remain under-researched, particularly in China. This study aimed to estimate the lifetime prevalence of TN in Jincheng City, central China, and to provide an initial epidemiological insight into its occurrence within the Chinese population.

A cross-sectional, descriptive epidemiological study was conducted from September to December 2024. A total of 1,350 individuals were surveyed using a 16-question screening questionnaire to assess symptoms of TN. TN diagnoses were based on the third edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3).

The final sample included 1,283 participants, with four diagnosed cases of TN, yielding a crude prevalence rate of 312 per 100,000 individuals (95% CI: 8-616 per 100,000). The mean age of the patients was 56.00 ± 9.59 years, and the female-to-male ratio was 3:1. The majority of patients (75%) had right-sided TN, with the maxillary and mandibular branches being most commonly affected. One case was classified as symptomatic TN due to multiple sclerosis, while the others were diagnosed with classical TN. All patients received pharmacological treatment, including carbamazepine and pregabalin.

This study provides the first epidemiological data on TN prevalence in Jincheng City, China. The estimated prevalence aligns with findings from several international studies, though regional differences remain. The female predominance in TN cases and the higher incidence of right-sided involvement are consistent with global trends. Further studies with larger sample sizes and updated diagnostic criteria are needed to explore potential regional and genetic factors influencing TN prevalence and to assess the long-term impact of TN on public health in China.