Unusual variations of the stylo-hyoid complex: case report and review of literature

According to several descriptions, the hyoid apparatus consists of the styloid process (SP), stylohyoid ligament, and lesser horn of the hyoid. However, elongation of the SP plays the most important role in the development of clinically important symptoms, called Eagle syndrome. Several theories clarifying SP elongation have been proposed. Some researchers have described a congenital etiology of this finding, whereas others have postulated that ossification of the stylohyoid ligament may result in such elongation. Nevertheless, regardless of the origin, elongated SPs can provoke symptoms by pressing on nearby structures, such as the internal carotid artery, internal jugular vein, and cranial nerves V and IX.

In this manuscript, we present a case of a patient with symptoms of dizziness and neck pain initially associated with recent trauma but eventually with Eagle syndrome.

Eagle syndrome, although rare, may be encountered in practice as an unclear medical situation with diverse otolaryngologic and/or neurologic manifestations and may present a clinical challenge. Awareness of its existence and implications can help to shorten the time to a final diagnosis and introduce the right treatment.