Isolated trigeminal neuropathy due to trigeminal nerve root hemorrhage

Abstract

Background: Isolated trigeminal neuropathy is uncommon; causes include trauma, inflammation, or neoplasm. Methods: We report a patient who fell and struck his head during a myocardial infarction, was treated with streptokinase, and developed symptoms and signs of an isolated trigeminal sensory neuropathy. Results: Imaging showed hemorrhage in the trigeminal nerve root; follow-up imaging showed resolution of the hemorrhage, but no underlying structural lesion. Conclusion: A combination of head trauma plus thrombolysis resulted in an isolated trigeminal neuropathy.