Neuralgia denotes a sharp, shooting, lancinating pain that is momentary but characteristically recurs. It may be precipitated by touch to a sensitive area ("trigger zone"), or may occur spontaneously. Cranial neuralgias are commonly distinct in two groups: typical neuralgias and atypical facial pain. Unlike headache syndromes, which are mediated centrally, neuralgias are more characteristic of peripheral nerve localisation. Neuralgias may follow nerve trauma, herpes zoster infections or may arise spontaneously. The management of this group of painful conditions is complicated by the area of the body involved and the interaction of organic and psychological factors.