Microvascular decompression for intermediate nerve neuralgia: a case report and literature review.

Intermediate nerve neuralgia (INN) is a rare craniofacial pain syndrome. The diagnosis of INN is challenging because of the complex ear sensory innervation that results in a clinical overlap with both trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GPN). A 76-year-old woman with a remarkable medical history presented with right otalgia and mandibular pain for 7 years. Neurological examination revealed a diminished sensation in the distribution of the intermediate nerve (IN). Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated an impression of the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) on the facial-vestibulocochlear nerve complex (VII/VIII complex). The patient underwent microvascular decompression (MVD) after long-term oral medication. We confirmed that the responsible vessel was close to the VII/VIII complex and isolated the vessel under the microscope via a right-sided suboccipital retrosigmoid approach. The patient's otalgia and mandibular pain disappeared after the operation. There were no additional neurological deficits. In conclusion, MVD is a safe and feasible option for patients with INN who fail to respond to adequate pharmacotherapy.

Research progress on ferroptosis in gliomas (Review).

Glioma is the most prevalent type of brain tumor characterized by a poor 5-year survival rate and a high mortality rate. Malignant gliomas are commonly treated by surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. However, due to toxicity and resistance to chemoradiotherapy, these treatments can be ineffective. Anxiety and depression are highly prevalent in patients with glioma, adversely affecting disease prognosis and posing societal concerns. Ferroptosis is a type of non-apoptotic, iron-dependent cell death characterized by the accumulation of lethal reactive oxygen species produced by iron metabolism, and it serves a key role in numerous diseases. Regulation of iron phagocytosis may serve as a therapeutic strategy for the development of novel glioma treatments. The present review discusses the mechanisms underlying the occurrence and regulation of ferroptosis, its role in the genesis and evolution of gliomas, and its association with glioma-related anxiety and depression. By exploring potential targets for glioma treatment, the present review provides a theoretical basis for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against glioma.