Carotid body tumor

Carotid body tumors are the most common paragangliomas of head and neck. Most of these tumors are benign with a small malignant potential. Although newer non-invasive diagnostic modalities have significantly enhanced the diagnostic capabilities, controversy exists over adequate management of these rare tumors. In younger, healthy patients with no comorbidities, the best therapeutic strategy is a complete excision of the tumor. However, in less than ideal patient population modalities such as radiation and tumor embolization can be considered. Surgical advances have greatly decreased the mortality rates, but the morbidity rates secondary to cranial nerve injuries remain high.