Anterior Ethmoidal Nerve Syndrome - An Under-diagnosed Cause of Headache

Abstract

Introduction

The anterior ethmoidal nerve syndrome is a group of symptoms resulting from irritation of the terminal branches of the anterior ethmoidal nerve.  Middle turbinate compression against the septum or the lateral nasal wall may cause a neuropathic facial pain syndrome which is often confused with sinogenic headache or other causes of headache. The diagnosis of anterior ethmoidal nerve syndrome is based on clinical and radiologic findings and needs a high index of suspicion. Our objective is to determine the nasal cause of headache and to create awareness among young ENT surgeons about various local causes of craniofacial pain.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective observational study carried out in a tertiary care hospital of North India. 30 patients who fulfilled the clinical diagnostic criteria were selected for the study.

Results

All the patients were analysed, managed accordingly by conservative and surgical management and outcome analysed. All patients were managed with medical and surgical management. Out of 30 patients, 28 (93.33%) patients improved in which 2 patients improve by medical management and 26 patients by surgical management.

Conclusion

The diagnosis requires a strong clinical suspicion and appropriate evaluation including nasal endoscopy, scan and anesthesia of the suspected point of contact.