Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the cornerstone of diagnosing trigeminal neuralgia. Modern MRI techniques can identify neurovascular compression, structural changes, and other conditions that may mimic trigeminal neuralgia.
When MRI findings are inconclusive or MRI cannot be performed, electrophysiological testing, including trigeminal reflex studies and evoked potentials, may provide valuable diagnostic information.
Accurate diagnosis also requires distinguishing trigeminal neuralgia from other causes of facial pain, including tumors, multiple sclerosis, painful post-traumatic trigeminal neuropathy, glossopharyngeal neuralgia, migraine, SUNCT, SUNA, and persistent idiopathic facial pain.
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.