Eagle syndrome: Case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Eagle syndrome, which is an uncommon sequela of elongation of the styloid process, can manifest as pain in the anterolateral neck, often with referred pain to the ear. In most cases, the elongation is an acquired condition, often occurring as a result of a traumatic incident, including tonsillectomy. We describe the case of a 57-year-old man who experienced unremitting right neck pain for several years following an accidental fall. A multidisciplinary investigation identified an elongated styloid process. Surgical shortening of the structure provided definitive relief of the patient's symptoms. We review the anatomy of the peristyloid structures and discuss the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of Eagle syndrome. © 2008, Vendome Group, LLC. All rights reserved.