Eagle Syndrome: A Case Series and Review of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Considerations

Background: Eagle syndrome is a rare clinical entity related to elongation of the styloid process and/or ossification of the stylohyoid ligament complex. Because of its nonspecific symptoms, it is frequently underdiagnosed. Objective: To highlight Eagle syndrome as a differential diagnosis in cervico-orofacial pain and to describe its clinical and radiological characteristics through a series of four cases. Methods: Four patients aged between 19 and 78 years presenting with cervico-facial or otological symptoms were evaluated clinically and radiologically. Panoramic radiography and complementary imaging were used to identify elongation or ossification of the stylohyoid complex. Results: All patients showed radiological evidence of elongation of the styloid process or ossification of the stylohyoid ligament, with heterogeneous clinical presentations ranging from incidental findings to symptomatic cervicofacial pain and otalgia. Conclusion: Eagle syndrome should be considered in patients with unexplained cervical, temporomandibular joint, pharyngeal or otological pain. Careful clinical examination combined with appropriate imaging allows accurate diagnosis and guides therapeutic decision-making.