Exploring the time course of painful post-traumatic trigeminal neuropathy: a pilot study

Abstract

Patients suffering from painful post-traumatic trigeminal neuropathy (PTTN) often report circadian variations in pain. This pilot study aimed to assess the daily evolution of pain in patients fulfilling the following criteria: PTTN diagnosed based on ICHD-3 criteria; >18 years of age; no impairment in communication and signed informed consent. Primary study outcome was a self-declared quantitative assessment of pain intensity using an 11-point numerical scale (0–10) for 8 consecutive days. Impact on oral function and quality of life was also assessed, using psychometric questionnaires GOHAI and HADS. Eleven patients with PTTN were recruited (mean age: 66.1 ± 6.8 years old). Mean pain intensity was 3.6 ± 0.99. Mean pain intensity increased progressively and significantly during the day, from 1.8 ± 1.3 to 4.6 ± 2.3 (p < 0.0001). Mean HADS score was 7.8 ± 2.7. Mean GOHAI score was weak (35/60). In conclusion, PTTN seems to follow a circadian rhythm.