Headache secondary to Eagle syndrome: a case report with its distinctive features

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurology
• Anatomy

Context:

• Eagle syndrome involves elongated styloid processes and calcified stylohyoid ligaments.
• It presents with characteristic temporal or retroauricular headaches.
• Pain is often exacerbated by mastication and speech, with tenderness on tonsillar pillar palpation.

Purpose:

• To describe the clinical and semiological presentation of Eagle syndrome.
• To highlight the importance of recognizing key diagnostic features.
• To emphasize the need for timely diagnosis and appropriate management.

Summary:

• Eagle syndrome is defined by styloid process elongation and stylohyoid ligament calcification.
• Clinical manifestations include headaches and localized pain.
• Diagnostic indicators involve specific patient history and physical examination findings.

Impact:

• Facilitates earlier diagnosis of Eagle syndrome.
• Reduces diagnostic delays by guiding appropriate complementary testing.
• Enables prompt initiation of correct treatment strategies for affected patients.