What condition is characterized by an elongated styloid process leading to neck pain?

The condition characterized by an elongated styloid process leading to neck pain is known as Eagle Syndrome. This syndrome results from the elongation of the styloid process, which is a small bony projection from the skull, or calcification of the stylohyoid ligament, causing discomfort or pain in the neck, throat, and jaw. The elongation can lead to irritation of nearby structures such as nerves or vessels, often resulting in symptoms like pain during swallowing or turning the head.

Eagle Syndrome is distinct from other conditions listed, as they do not primarily involve the structural changes of the styloid process and are associated with different mechanisms of pain. For example, osteoarthritis involves degeneration of joint cartilage and affecting mobility rather than a specific elongated process. Fibromyalgia is a widespread pain condition without a clear anatomical cause, often associated with tenderness and fatigue. Myofascial pain syndrome involves muscle pain associated with trigger points but does not involve bony alterations like those seen in Eagle Syndrome. Thus, the specificity of elongated styloid process and its direct impact on neck pain aligns with the characteristics of Eagle Syndrome.