Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia Associated with Bradycardia, Syncope, and Seizures

An unusual case of glossopharyngeal neuralgia associated with bradycardia, hypotension, syncope, and seizure is described. Our observations indicate that the cardiovascular components of this syndrome are probably due to stimulation of vagal centers by pain impulses arising from the glossopharyngeal area. Diphenylhydantoin therapy produced satisfactory relief of symptoms in this patient, probably by modification of the intensity of the neuralgic pain and thereby reducing the central vagal response.