Diagnosis and treatment of a carotid body tumor: A case report of a rare bilateral tumor

Multiparametric analysis of carotid body tumours: a pictorial essay

Carotid body tumours (CBT), also called carotid body paraganglioma, are highly vascular and histologically portray paraganglion cells. They are typically found at the carotid bifurcation and result in the splaying of the internal and external carotid arteries (ICA and ECA). Recent literature supports the role of chronic hypoxia in the etiology of CBT. This pictorial essay discusses how CBT is an uncommon etiology for common clinical problems such as transient ischemic attacks. It also discusses imaging techniques to precisely map out the tumour for surgical resection using advanced imaging modalities and techniques.

A multidisciplinary approach to carotid body tumors surgical management

Carotid body tumors (CBTs) are rare and usually require complex surgical resection. We present a case of a large 7-cm CBT successfully treated in a community cancer center using a multidisciplinary team approach.

A 32-year-old male referred for surgical evaluation of an asymptomatic right neck mass. CT angiography showed a 7-cm tumor encasing the carotid vessels, including the bifurcation (Shamblin III). Preoperative angiography and embolization were performed by interventional radiology. The patient underwent surgical removal of the CBTs and required surgical reconstruction with a common carotid to internal carotid bypass using a polytetrafluoroethylene interposition graft. The hypoglossal nerve, vagus nerve and glossopharyngeal nerve were identified, meticulously dissected and preserved. The patient did well after surgery and recovered with no complications. This report examines the diagnosis, preoperative workup and surgical management of CBTs using a multidisciplinary team approach.