Carotidynia: an unusual pain in the neck

Described by Fay in 1927, carotidynia has not received much attention in the otolaryngology-head and neck surgery literature. This unusual entity is characterized by ipsilateral neck pain in the region of the carotid artery near its bifurcation. The differential diagnosis is extensive and includes thyroiditis, migraine headache, aneurysm of the carotid system, temporomandibular joint syndrome, giant cell arteritis, and head and neck neoplasms. A correct diagnosis is usually achieved by careful review of the history and physical examination. Laboratory studies are obtained primarily to exclude other causes. Successful treatment is most often effected with the use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, although other treatment modalities may be needed. A series of 25 patients treated during the past 10 years is presented. The symptoms, physical findings, appropriate laboratory studies, and a treatment protocol for this uncommon entity are detailed.