2015 Loch-Wilkinson T, Tsimiklis C, Santoreneos S. Trigeminal
Neuralgia associated with Chiari 1 Malformation: Symptom resolution following craniocervical decompression and duroplasty. Case report and review of the literature. Surgical Neurology International. 2015 Jul 23;6 (Suppl 11) S327-9
Background
Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) may rarely be the presenting or only symptom of Chiari 1 malformation (CM). Isolated case reports have described resolution of TN following craniocervical decompression where TN is present in association with CM.
Case Report
This report discusses an unusual case of pure TN associated with CM that was successfully treated with craniocervical decompression and duroplasty and reviews the limited literature on the subject.
Conclusion
TN may be the sole presenting symptom of CM and can be successfully managed with craniocervical decompression. Clinicians should be aware of the association of TN with CM and consider surgical management.