Trigeminal neurotrophic ulceration

Abstract

A 74 year-old female developed a trigeminal neurotrophic ulcer (TNU) 20 years following surgical ablation of the trigeminal nerve. The diagnosis of this unusual disorder is suggested when an ulcerative lesion develops in the ala nasi in a patient with trigeminal sensory loss. A history of self-induced trauma to that area and some form of mental impairment further support the diagnosis. Exclusion of basal cell carcinoma and other causes of facial ulceration is mandatory before the diagnosis of TNU is established.