Primary auriculotemporal neuralgia. Case report

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Auriculotemporal neuralgia is an uncommon condition. Symptoms are brief severe pain attacks, especially in the temporal region. Although many cranial neuralgias are related to nervous compression, they may be present without identifiable etiologic factors. This study aimed at describing a case of primary auriculotemporal neuralgia and respective therapeutic approach. CASE REPORT: Male patient, 72 years old, presented for assistance reporting severe pain in left temporal region, described as shock and of very short duration. After clinical evaluation and imaging exams, no significant changes were detected. Patient has satisfactorily responded to carbamazepine. CONCLUSION: This case shows that auriculotemporal neuralgia has clinical presentation similar to other neuralgias. Diagnosis is primarily obtained by pain characteristics evaluation and exclusion of possible secondary causes.