Stylohyoid Complex (Eagle) Syndrome Starting in a 9-Year-Old Boy

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pediatrics
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• The glossopharyngeal neuralgic form of stylohyoid complex syndrome is exceptionally rare in pediatric populations, with limited prior case reports.
• Stylohyoid complex abnormalities are infrequently documented as a cause of pediatric glossopharyngeal neuralgia.

Observation:

• A 12-year-old boy presented with severe, recurrent cranial pain affecting the tonsillar fossa, ear, and mastoid region, significantly impacting his quality of life.
• Despite multiple pharmacologic treatments, the patient experienced daily episodes of intense pain, leading to school absenteeism and social withdrawal.
• Diagnostic imaging revealed an elongated right styloid process and bilateral stylohyoid ligament calcification.

Findings:

• Surgical intervention involving the excision of the elongated right styloid process and adjacent stylohyoid ligament resulted in complete cessation of glossopharyngeal neuralgic pain.
• The patient remained asymptomatic for a seven-year follow-up period post-surgery, indicating a durable treatment outcome.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering stylohyoid complex syndrome in the differential diagnosis of recurrent cranial pain in children.
• Early recognition and surgical management can offer a definitive and lasting solution for this debilitating pediatric condition.
• Further research into the pediatric manifestations and optimal treatment strategies for stylohyoid complex syndrome is warranted.