Trigeminal neuralgia and related disorders.

Trigeminal neuralgia is probably the most excruciatingly painful disorder to afflict mankind and is refractory to all conventional analgesic agents. Fortunately, a number of specific medical and surgical therapies are now available. An accurate diagnosis is thus essential for the successful management of patients afflicted with trigeminal neuralgia. This article reviews the signs and symptoms, natural history, and diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia. A discussion follows on current views on its pathogenesis and on available medical and surgical treatment modalities.