Eagle's syndrome. About a case

Djidda Abakar1*, Ndikuman Odette¹, Omar Amriss1, Merzem Aicha1, Belgadir Hasnaa1,
Moussali Nadia¹, Elbenna Naima1
Page No. 1-4

Eagle syndrome or pen-carotid syndrome is a clinical and radiological entity characterized by
ossification of the stylohyoid ligament which may manifest itself by clinical signs related to the
compression of vasculo-nervous structures. This syndrome was first described by Eagle in 1937. Its
frequency is estimated at 4% of the general population, and only 4% of its ossifications are
symptomatic [1]. The functional signs are variable, Eagle distinguished three groups, the first is
that of the classic syndrome associating neck pain, earache and pharyngeal discomfort, the second
characterized by pain along the external carotid and the third asymptomatic. Palpation of the
tonsillar dimples suggests the diagnosis. Standard x-rays usually confirm this, but it is mainly CT
that allows us to properly explore the calcified ligament and its relationships. The treatment is
surgical, based on the excision of the calcified process and the release of the compressed vasculonervous
structures.