Persistent Idiopathic Dentoalveolar Pain: Is It a Central Pain Disorder?

The International Classification of Orofacial Pain (ICOP) describes idiopathic pain as "unilateral or bilateral intraoral or facial pain in the distribution(s) of one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve(s) for which the etiology is unknown. Pain is usually persistent, of moderate intensity, poorly localized and described as dull, pressing or of burning character." Several diagnoses are included in the ICOP Idiopathic pain section, burning mouth syndrome and persistent idiopathic facial and dentoalveolar pain.

Secondary trigeminal neuralgia diagnosed in orofacial pain setting as epidermoid tumor.

This case report describes the rare occurrence of an epidermoid tumor compressing the ipsilateral trigeminal nerve resulting in secondary trigeminal neuralgia. MRI is the imaging modality of choice for the diagnosis of secondary trigeminal neuralgia. The epidermoid tumor was discovered by an orofacial pain specialist after reassessing the MRI study, previously reported as normal.

Diagnosis and management of traumatically induced hemicrania continua and neuropathic pain secondary to facial gun shot wound.

Near fatal gunshot wound to the face results in lifesaving surgery and restorative procedures. Chronic pain followed. This is the probable first case report of posttraumatic hemicrania continua and its successful management.

ATP and adenosine-Two players in the control of seizures and epilepsy development.

Despite continuous advances in understanding the underlying pathogenesis of hyperexcitable networks and lowered seizure thresholds, the treatment of epilepsy remains a clinical challenge. Over one third of patients remain resistant to current pharmacological interventions. Moreover, even when effective in suppressing seizures, current medications are merely symptomatic without significantly altering the course of the disease.

Are glia targets for neuropathic orofacial pain therapy?

Post traumatic trigeminal neuropathy, presenting frequently as a complication of dental procedures, is often detrimental to the patient, with psychological and socioeconomic ramifications. Following a neuronal injury, numerous changes occur in both the peripheral (PNS) and central nervous systems (CNS) contributing to neuronal plasticity. Over the years, many studies have documented neuronal mechanisms involved in neuropathic pain, whereas non neuronal mechanisms, such as those based on glia have gained increased focus only recently.

Minimally Invasive Trigeminal Ablation: Long Buccal Nerve.

Aims: To describe a technique of minimally invasive trigeminal nerve ablation of the long buccal nerve that was performed at a tertiary care academic medical center.

Methods: This case describes a 44-year-old woman with refractory left long buccal nerve neuropathy following a dental procedure. After failing medical management, she was taken for nerve exploration, which revealed no nerve discontinuity or neuroma formation.