Trigeminal Trophic Syndrome—A Unique Clinical Presentation of a Rare Condition

Abstract

This study describes a unique clinical presentation of trigeminal trophic syndrome (TTS), which is not well described within the otolaryngology literature. Trigeminal trophic syndrome classically presents with a triad of symptoms: trigeminal anesthesia, facial paresthesias, and crescent-shaped ulceration of the lateral nasal ala. The patient discussed in this report had a self-induced, waxing and waning ulceration of the frontal scalp for 7 years and was evaluated and treated ineffectively by multiple physicians, including otolaryngologists, before TTS was diagnosed and a targeted treatment was initiated. Although extranasal presentation is uncommon, this condition must be considered when ulcers are encountered in the trigeminal dermatome. This case highlights the variability in presentation and the importance of awareness of this rare syndrome. We aim to facilitate more prompt diagnosis and expedite the initiation of appropriate treatment for TTS in the field of otolaryngology.