Carotid Body Tumor: Clinical Features

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Surgical Oncology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Carotid body tumors (CBTs) are rare neoplasms often presenting as lateral neck masses.
• Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
• This study reviews a decade of clinical experience with CBTs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the clinical characteristics, surgical management, and outcomes of patients with carotid body tumors.
• To discuss the challenges and risks associated with CBT surgery, particularly cranial nerve injury.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 21 patients diagnosed with CBT at Fırat University Hospital.
• Evaluation of demographic data, tumor characteristics, and imaging findings (CT angiography).
• Analysis of surgical procedures, tumor classification (Shamblin), and postoperative complications.

Main Results:

• The study included 19 women and 2 men, with a mean age of 54.06 years.
• Painless neck swelling was the most common presenting symptom (76.2%).
• Surgical excision was performed in 90.5% of patients, with Shamblin Class II and III tumors being most frequent. Postoperative complications included infection (5.3%), vagus nerve injury (10.5%), and hypoglossus nerve injury (10.5%).

Conclusions:

• Preoperative imaging is essential for surgical planning to determine tumor size and extent.
• Despite surgical advancements, postoperative cranial nerve damage remains a considerable risk in CBT treatment.
• Careful surgical technique and patient selection are vital to minimize morbidity.