Superior laryngeal neuralgia associated with deviation of the hyoid bone

Superior laryngeal neuralgia is a rare condition. We report a case of superior laryngeal neuralgia with deviated hyoid bone. A 50-year-old woman presented with paroxysmal and lancing pain localized to the area around the thyrohyoid membrane. Pain was induced and worsened by swallowing. A three-dimensional image showed deviation of the hyoid bone. General and neurological examinations were normal. After spraying of the larynx with 4% lidocaine, the pain improved. Superior laryngeal neuralgia was diagnosed, and the condition was treated with carbamazepine. Superior laryngeal neuralgia is rare but should be considered, particularly if no other pathologic findings are identified.