Case of SUNCT headache mimmicking trigeninal neuralgia

Abstract

SUNCT (Short-lasting, Unilateral, Neuralgiform headache Atack with Conjunctival injection and Tearing) headache is a rare, primary headache disorder and a member of Trigeminal autonomic cephalgias (TACs) that is characterized by brief, intense episodes of pain in the head and face accompanied with paroxysmal facial autonomic symptoms . In some cases, the symptoms of SUNCT headache can resemble those of trigeminal neuralgia, a condition that is also characterized by intense facial pain. Both conditions can cause similar symptoms such as sudden, sharp, and severe pain in the face, but there are differences in their clinical presentation and medical treatment. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential because of possible complications and long-term negative impact on the patient's quality of life Trigeminal neuralgia is usually treated with anticonvulsant medications, while SUNCT headache is often resistant to treatment with anticonvulsant medication; and calcium channel blockers, anesthetics like lidocaine and/or nerve blocks being amoung the main treatment options.

Keywords

• Trigeminal autonomic cephalgias
• SUNCT
• AICA
• Vascular compression

References

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