Glossopharyngeal neuralgia associated with a vascular loop demonstrated by magnetic resonance imaging

We report two cases of glossopharyngeal neuralgia associated with a vascular loop of the postero-inferior cerebellar artery, diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging. Reviewing the literature, we found this to be the first report of a magnetic resonance-validated vascular abnormality related to such a condition. One patient was cured by surgical decompression, confirming the role of the abnormal vessel in the pain. As with trigeminal neuralgia, a possible vascular aetiology should be considered in glossopharyngeal neuralgia.