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Radionuclide angiography and surgery for familial bilateral chemodectomas
J R Hamilton1, A A Barros D'Sa
1Vascular Unit, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, U.K.
European Journal of Vascular Surgery
|April 1, 1987
Summary
Familial carotid body tumors, or chemodectomas, show a dominant hereditary pattern. Radionuclide angiography aids in early diagnosis and management of these rare neck tumors.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- Carotid body tumors (chemodectomas) are rare neoplasms.
- Bilateral occurrence is uncommon (5%) but significantly higher (30%) in familial cases.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial due to tumor behavior and potential hereditary predisposition.
Observation:
- A family with bilateral carotid body tumors was investigated.
- Radionuclide angiography (99mTechnetium gluconate) was employed for diagnosis.
- The study involved tracing a family tree and studying 28 individuals.
Findings:
- Bilateral carotid body tumors were identified in five siblings.
- This observation conclusively established a dominant hereditary trait for these tumors.
- The study demonstrated radionuclide angiography as a safe and effective diagnostic tool.
Implications:
- The findings highlight the importance of genetic counseling and screening in families with carotid body tumors.
- Early detection through safe imaging techniques like radionuclide angiography facilitates timely surgical intervention.
- Surgical management by vascular surgeons is emphasized for optimal outcomes in carotid body tumor excision.