Eagle’s syndrome - review of the literature

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to summarize and compare known approaches to Eagle’s syndrome treatment, as well as its variety of symptoms and causes. The review was conducted based on publications from doctors around the globe, in order to gain as thorough understanding of the disorder as possible. The syndrome can manifest itself as a slight discomfort in the neck region, dysphagia, migranes, or even in a stroke-like manner resulting in a direct life threat. Depending on its origin, two types of the syndrome were classified: classic and vascular type. When dealing with neck area pain doctors must always take into consideration the Eagle’s syndrome, and by far the best way to recognize it is by performing a CT scan. As for treatment, in the beginning a conservative approach may be best with anti-inflammatory, and anti-anxiety drugs which have been proven to be effective in milder cases. Surgical procedures have also been successfully performed such as styloidectomy, however there is more risk of post- surgical complications. With broad understanding of the subject, and awareness of many treatment strategies, the patients will be diagnosed and treated more effectively and safely.

Keywords

• eagle’s syndrome