[The styloid process elongation syndrome (Eagle syndrome): a case report]

Eagle syndrome is an aggregate of symptoms that includes recurrent throat pain, foreign body sensation, dysphagia, and/or facial pain as a direct result of an elongated styloid process or calcified stylohyoid ligament. The etiology is poorly understood and several theories have been proposed. The pathophysiological mechanism of symptoms is debated as well. Diagnosis is made both radiographically and by physical examination. Treatment of Eagle syndrome is either surgical or non surgical. A case report of temporomandibular joint pain that has been finally diagnosed as Eagle syndrome is presented and discussed.