Heterogeneity in the Clinical Presentation of Eagle’s Syndrome

Objective

Eagle’s syndrome (ES) or symptomatic elongated styloid process is an uncommon but important cause of chronic head and neck pain. This study reports our experience in the diagnosis and treatment of a series of patients with ES.

Study Design

Patient histories, radiographic tests, and operative reports of 3 patients over a 3-month period were prospectively collected.

Setting

Tertiary referral otolaryngology service.

Results

All patients had resolution of symptoms relating to their elongated styloid processes after surgical resection.

Conclusion

Although sometimes clouded by coexisting symptoms, ES can be easily diagnosed based on good history taking and physical examination. If diagnosed appropriately, surgical treatment can be administered promptly.

Significance

Patients with ES commonly have a long history of chronic pain treated by multiple physicians. Appropriate diagnosis can lead to prompt treatment of this condition.

EBM rating: C-4