In Eagle's syndrome, which ligament is affected and what is the primary symptom?

• A. Stylohyoid ligament and ear pain
• B. Stylomandibular ligament and jaw ache
• C. Sphenomandibular ligament and headaches
• D. Temporomandibular ligament and toothache

Answer: (A)

Pain in Eagle’s syndrome comes from the stylohyoid ligament becoming elongated or calcified, creating a problematic styloid–hyoid complex. This ligament runs from the styloid process to the hyoid bone, and when it ossifies or lengthens, it can irritate nearby tissues and nerves in the throat and ear region. The most characteristic symptom is ear pain (referred otalgia), though patients may also notice throat discomfort or swallowing difficulties. The other ligaments listed aren’t implicated in this condition, since Eagle’s syndrome specifically involves the stylohyoid ligament (or the styloid process itself) rather than the stylomandibular, sphenomandibular, or temporomandibular ligaments.