Incidental MRI findings in patients presenting with trigeminal neuralgia
Talisa Ellwood, Kevin RyanINTRODUCTION
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is recommended as an important investigation for trigeminal neuralgia patients. This can help establish a diagnosis. However, with increased utilisation, it can also identify a range of incidental findings. The aim of this study was to report incidental MRI findings in a cohort of trigeminal neuralgia patients and their management.
METHODS
Data for 125 patients with a suspected diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia were collected retrospectively from a radiology information database of imaging requested between 2016 and 2021. Data gathered included incidental MRI findings and their management.
RESULTS
Two-thirds (64%) of the MRI reports identified an incidental finding.
CONCLUSIONS
There are currently no clinical guidelines for managing incidental MRI findings. Managing these can complicate the diagnostic pathway for trigeminal neuralgia.