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[Trigeminal neuropathy and connective tissue diseases]
M Soubrier1, M Vidailhet, P Clavelou
1Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital G.-Montpied, CHRU de Clermont-Ferrand.
Annales De Medecine Interne
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Connective tissue diseases can cause trigeminal neuropathy, often leading to diagnosis. This rare condition typically presents as unilateral numbness and tingling, with limited treatment options.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Connective tissue diseases (CTDs) are an uncommon cause of trigeminal neuropathy.
- Understanding the link between CTDs and trigeminal nerve involvement is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- A retrospective study identified 12 cases of trigeminal neuropathy associated with CTDs over 12 years.
- Associated CTDs included progressive systemic sclerosis, mixed connective tissue disease, and Sjögren's syndrome.
- In most cases, neuropathy preceded or coincided with CTD diagnosis, often during periods of low disease activity.
Findings:
- The neuropathy was typically unilateral, affecting the inferior trigeminal branches, presenting as numbness and paresthesias.
- Electromyography confirmed peripheral neuropathy in the few cases studied.
- Treatments like corticotherapy and carbamazepine showed limited efficacy.
Implications:
- Trigeminal neuropathy can be an early indicator of underlying connective tissue disease.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the pathophysiology and optimize treatment strategies for this rare neurological complication.