Correlation of imaging and genetic changes in classical trigeminal neuralgia

Abstract

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a very reliable investigating aid newlineto confirm the abnormal vessel-nerve relationship or other secondary organic newlinecauses to confirm a clinical diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia (Majoie et al, newline1995).Researchers are always been interested to probe into a possible newlinegenetic or hereditary aspect in the possible etiology of neuropathic pain. The newlinequestion which has eluded researchers is why some individuals are more newlinesusceptible to experiencing pain in TN. Many cases where there is newlinedemonstrable evidence of neurovascular conflict, it can be clinically newlineasymptomatic. Could it be possible whether inheritance of a specific gene newlinepolymorphism be responsible for the presence or absence of the clinical signs newlineand symptoms pathognomic of a trigeminal neuralgia irrespective of the newlinepresence or absence of neurovascular conflict (NVC) evident from MRI. newlineMRI is the best investigatory imaging mode for demonstrating NVC. newlineNot only can MRI be diagnostic but advanced MRI like Arterial Spin Labelling newline(ASL-MRI) evaluate the functional activity of the brain. Functional MRI as an newlineinvestigatory tool in TN in addition to a recording of possible neurovascular newlineconflict or an organic lesion would help to assess the cerebral perfusion in TN, newlinewhich would help to strategies optimal beneficial treatment. Investigating the newlinepossible genetic mechanism in the etiology of TN would further validate an newlineearly diagnosis of TN. newlineHence, there is a need to identify genetic marker and arterial spin newlinelabeling MRI which is a functional MRI to assess the changes in the brain in newlineTN, which would throw more light on the disease patterns progression and newlinestrategizing of treatment options.On conclusion, diagnosis of TN with the history and clinical features newlineitself is confirmatory. However, to confirm whether the TN is classical or newlinesecondary to any other lesion in the brain an MRI is mandatory. newline