Congenital Neck Cysts
Eagle Syndrome
Eagle syndrome is throat pain worsening with swallowing, and ear-radiating pain, caused by an elongated styloid process. Mild cases may need only observation; pronounced ones are treated by shortening the process surgically.
Eagle syndrome and lymph nodes
Eagle syndrome arises when the styloid process, a slender bone projecting from the skull base, is longer than usual. It can cause throat pain that worsens with swallowing, pain radiating to the ear or a foreign-body feeling. Mild complaints may need only observation and medication; where symptoms are pronounced, the elongated process is shortened surgically.
For enlarged neck lymph nodes the path is clear: examination, ultrasound and, where needed, needle biopsy. These steps decide which finding can simply be watched and which needs further work.
Read the full Congenital Neck Cysts guide
Frequently asked questions
An elongated styloid process is more common than assumed; symptoms from it are rare. Diagnosis goes hand in hand with excluding other causes of similar complaints.
Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Ayşenur Meriç Hafız, Professor of ENT and Head & Neck Surgery — August 2026 · About
Outcomes of surgical and medical procedures vary from person to person; please consult your physician for an assessment specific to you.
We are here for your questions
The practice is at Selenium Plaza in Beşiktaş. Message us on WhatsApp or call to arrange a visit. English-speaking patients are welcome.