Asymptomatic bilateral elongated and mineralized stylohyoid complex : report of one case

Abstract

The stylohyoid process is a cylindrical bony structure surrounded by important anatomical structures including vessels and nerves. Calcification and elongation of the stylohyoid ligament complex over 30 mm may be associated with neck and facial pain, known as Eagle’s syndrome. However, a bilateral ossified and elongated stylohyoid complex may be devoid of symptoms. We report a 79-year-old symptom-free female who presented on a routine conventional dental radiographic exam an 80.96 mm pseudoarticulated stylohyoid complex in the left side and an 75.85 mm on the other. On CAT scan, both processes were calcified.