Trigeminal trophic syndrome associated with post-herpetic neuralgia – report of a rare case with review of literature

Introduction
Trigeminal trophic syndrome is a rare clinical entity characterized by a triad of ala nasi ulceration, trigeminal anaesthesia and paraesthesia.

Objective
To report a patient with painless facial and scalp ulceration which was diagnosed as trigeminal trophic syndrome following herpes zoster.

Case Report
A 72-year-old man, who had suffered from herpes zoster in the trigeminal nerve distribution 6 months prior, presented with a 3-month history of unilateral facial and scalp ulceration in the same distribution. Diagnosis of trigeminal trophic syndrome was reached after excluding infectious, malignant and granulomatous conditions.

Conclusions
Post-herpetic trigeminal trophic syndrome has been scarcely reported. Reports on this rare entity can be found both in dermatological and otolaryngology literature due to overlapping nature of the condition which makes it important for both these specialities. We are reporting this case due to the paucity in world literature and to apprise the clinicians about this unusual condition to reduce the risk of misdiagnosis.