Sudden Death Due to Eagle Syndrome

Abstract

Eagle syndrome represents symptoms manifested by compression of regional structures by elongation of the styloid process or ossification of the stylohyoid membrane. Various theories have been put forward toward the development of Eagle syndrome. Depending on the underlying pathogenetic mechanism and the anatomical structures compressed or irritated by the elongated styloid process, symptoms vary greatly, ranging from cervicofacial pain to cerebral ischemia. Because the symptoms are variable and nonspecific, patients land up in different clinics for treatment. In the present case, the victim had previous episode of unconsciousness along with frequent headache for which she visited various clinics on numerous occasions. The elongated styloid process was appreciated during the postmortem examination, and the diagnosis of sudden death due to mechanical irritation of the carotid sinus by elongated styloid process was made as the sign of acute cardiovascular failure was present and upon exclusion of other causes of death.

Three Dimensional Reconstructed Computed Tomography Features of Eagle Syndrome

“…It results from elongated styloid process or calcified stylohyoid ligament. Depending on anatomical structures compressed or irritated by the elongated/calcified styloid process symptoms vary greatly, ranging from cervicofacial pain to cerebral ischemia [2].The patients mainly complain from recurrent throat pain, foreign body sensation, dysphagia, and/or facial pain [3]. Kumar et Al reported a case of eagle syndrome causing sudden death probably due to vagus-mediated cardiac inhibition [2].…”

Síndrome de Eagle Desencadeada por Estrangulamento Esportivo – Relato de Caso e Considerações Médico Legais

“…Há, inclusive, pelo menos dois casos de mortes súbitas atribuídas à SE, onde foi observada uma associação entre o PE alongado e a irritação mecânica do seio carotídeo, com consequente falência cardiovascular 11,12 . Portanto, ainda que não haja estudos conclusivos a respeito, é possível que o PE alongado predisponha, em uma situação de constrição cervical, a compressão de estruturas vasculares e neurais do pescoço, o que pode aumentar o risco de colapso cardiovascular e morte súbita nos indivíduos com esta condição.…”

Pain in the Neck: Are We Potentially at Risk?

“…A CBCT reconstructs a three-dimensional image of the anatomy of the affected area and enables the clinician to make an accurate and necessary measurement of the length of the elongated styloid process. Consequently, it will reduce the potential iatrogenic intra-operative injury when surgery is planned [10].…”