Trigeminal neuralgia and persistent trigeminal artery

Neurol Sci. 2012 Dec;33(6):1455-8. doi: 10.1007/s10072-012-0942-z. Epub 2012 Jan 14.

Abstract

We report a case of trigeminal neuralgia caused by persistent trigeminal artery (PTA) associated with asymptomatic left temporal cavernoma. Our patient presented unstable blood hypertension and the pain of typical trigeminal neuralgia over the second and third divisions of the nerve in the right side of the face. The attacks were often precipitated during physical exertion. MRI and Angio-MRI revealed the persistent carotid basilar anastomosis and occasionally left parietal cavernoma. After drug treatment of blood hypertension, spontaneous recovery of neuralgia was observed and we planned surgical treatment of left temporal cavernoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiography
  • Trigeminal Nerve / abnormalities
  • Trigeminal Nerve / blood supply*
  • Trigeminal Nerve / diagnostic imaging*
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia / diagnostic imaging*
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia / etiology