Chronic/Persistent Idiopathic Facial Pain.
Persistent or chronic idiopathic facial pain, often called atypical facial pain, is often used as a diagnosis of exclusion. It is chronic pain in a nonanatomically distributed area of the face and mouth that can be episodic or continuous and described as a nagging dull pain that at times is severe. It is associated with other chronic pain conditions, psychological abnormalities, and significant life events. Investigations are all normal and early treatment can prevent chronicity. A multidisciplinary biopsychosocial approach with the use of antidepressants and cognitive behavior therapy provides the best chance of pain relief and improved quality of life.
Division of Diagnostic, Surgical and Medical Sciences, Eastman Dental Hospital, UCLH NHS Foundation Trust, 256 Gray's Inn Road, London, WC1X 8LD, UK. Electronic address: j.zakrzewska@ucl.ac.uk.
Joanna M
JM
Zakrzewska
D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D059350:Chronic Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D005157:Facial Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D011788:Quality of Life
D000928:Antidepressive Agents
Antidepressants; Cognitive behavior therapy; Facial pain; Persistent idiopathic facial pain