Transoral resection of stylopharyngeus calcification: a unique manifestation of a stylohyoid complex syndrome.

BACKGROUND

Eagle syndrome is often considered in the work-up of odynophagia and neck pain. Classically, this is manifested by ossification or calcification of the stylohyoid ligament or styloid process. There are no reported cases of stylopharyngeal calcification leading to these symptoms.

CASE: We describe a patient with a suspected submucosal pharyngeal foreign body who was found to have a calcified stylopharyngeus muscle and tendon during surgery. The patient experienced full resolution of symptoms after transoral robotic resection. This diagnosis was initially missed because the radiology was inconsistent with Eagle syndrome.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report of isolated stylopharyngeal calcification, and this unique manifestation of a stylohyoid complex syndrome should be considered in patients with symptoms of Eagle syndrome without styloid elongation.