Idiopathic sensory trigeminal neuropathy

A series of seven cases of isolated facial numbness is presented in whom the final diagnosis is considered to be idiopathic trigeminal neuropathy. Although this is a benign condition, careful work-up is needed, preferably by a team of specialists, in order to exclude more serious pathology. The team should include a neurologist, an otolaryngologist and a dental surgeon. By this means all other possible underlying diagnoses can be excluded. A list of differential diagnoses is discussed and the need for careful long-term follow-up is stressed.