Traumatic Eagle Syndrome: Does Neck Trauma Result in Complete Ossification in Partially Ossified Stylohoid Ligament?

Abstract

Eagle syndrome (ES) is a constellation of symptoms and signs resulting from abnormal stylohyoid chain ossification [1]. The styloid chain consists of the styloid process, the stylohyoid ligament, and the lesser cornu of the hyoid bone [2]. ES is a rare entity which is not commonly suspected in clinical practice [3], and only a small percentage of the 4% of population believed to have an elongated styloid process and a calcified stylohyoid ligament manifest the symptoms [4]. The symptoms are a foreignbody sensation in the throat, dysphagia, and intermittent facial pain related to an elongated styloid process and a calcified stylohyoid ligament [5]. Other frequent symptoms include headache, pain on rotation of the neck, pain on extension of the tongue, change in voice, and a sensation of hyper salivation [6]. The diagnosis is often first made radiologically and once made this prompts clinical confirmation by palpation of the tonsillar fossa. We present a case of a 50-year old physician presents with progressive but intermittent voice change of 1 year duration and dysphagia of 2 weeks duration.