CLINICAL ASPECTS, DIAGNOSIS AND THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES OF TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA

Abstract

Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition that causes intense episodes of facial pain, often described as acute, shock-like pain. Its complexity involves multiple factors, such as demyelination of the trigeminal nerve and central sensitization, making diagnosis and therapeutic management challenging. This study aims to understand the anatomical, etiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of trigeminal neuralgia, with an emphasis on its impacts on patients' quality of life. To this end, a literature review methodology was adopted, which allowed a critical analysis of existing studies on the condition, its mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatments. The research highlighted the importance of an accurate diagnosis that allows distinguishing trigeminal neuralgia from other causes of facial pain, and highlighted the relevance of management that contemplates not only pain control, but also the psychological well-being of patients. In its final considerations, the study emphasized that, despite advances in therapeutic approaches, trigeminal neuralgia still represents a major clinical challenge, requiring individualized treatment that is sensitive to the particularities of each patient.