Trigeminal Trophic Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review

Trigeminal trophic syndrome (TTS) is a rare neurocutaneous disorder defined by trigeminal anesthesia, facial paresthesia, and crescentic ulceration of the nasal ala. We describe an 86-year-old woman with long-standing trigeminal neuralgia who developed a suspicious ulcerated lesion on the left nasal ala. Although the initial biopsy showed atypical squamous cells suggestive of squamous cell carcinoma, the combined histopathologic, radiologic, and clinical findings supported a diagnosis of TTS. This case underscores the need to distinguish TTS from malignancy, particularly in elderly patients with neurologic comorbidities. Early recognition may prevent unnecessary invasive procedures and improve outcomes.