Vascular Eagle syndrome presenting with expanding cervical hematoma and acute ischemic stroke causing impending airway compromise.
Dhruva Yadiyal, Rishabh Bhowmick, Nikhilesh Chandra
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A 26-year-old female presented with rapidly progressive right neck swelling and respiratory distress, leading to stridor and hypoxia. Imaging revealed a fractured elongated styloid process, an aneurysm of the occipital branch of the external carotid artery, and a large cervical hematoma. Emergency tracheostomy and evacuation of the hematoma were performed, resulting in recovery with minimal neurological deficits.
What made this case unusual
This case illustrates a rare vascular variant of Eagle syndrome that resulted in both hemorrhagic airway compromise and acute ischemic stroke, which is uncommon in the literature.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider vascular Eagle syndrome in patients presenting with neck swelling and respiratory distress, particularly when accompanied by neurological symptoms.
Why it matters
Recognizing the potential for vascular complications in Eagle syndrome can lead to timely interventions that may prevent severe outcomes, including airway compromise and stroke.