Paragangliomas of the head and neck--a radiological approach

Paragangliomas of the head and neck are characterized by their profuse vascularity and persistent tumour blush during angiography. Routine bilateral carotid angiograms are needed to exclude bilateral localization. Subtraction angiography and computed tomography (CT) are of limited value in the diagnosis of paragangliomas of the neck, but play an important part in the diagnosis and management of jugulotympanic paragangliomas related to the base of the skull. CT scans demonstrate a mass of soft-tissue density which enhances on administration of contrast medium. CT is important in the evaluation of intracranial extension as well as in follow-up after operation and irradiation.