Carotid Body Tumor

This image is a contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MRI of a right carotid body tumor overlying the right carotid bifucation.

The tumor is considered a glomus tumor which are part of the extra-adrenal neuroendocrine system. Glomus tumors most oftenly occur in the inner ear or the temporal bone. They are slow growing and not usually fatal.

Patients with the carotid body type of glomus tumor usually have symptoms such as hoarseness, dysphagia, vertigo, or paresis. They may present with a mobile, non tender lateral neck mass. They are believed to be caused by an overresponse to a change in the body's homeostasis.

CT with contrast, MRI with contrast, and angiography are best for diagnosing. Surgery is the preferred treatment. Patients that are not able to tolarate surgery may undergo radiation therapy or embolization. Embolization can be done prior to surgery because of the vascular nature of the tumors.