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Audiological findings in glomus tumours
D M Baguley1, R M Irving, D G Hardy
1Department of Audiology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK.
British Journal of Audiology
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Glomus tumours, rare skull base growths, often cause hearing loss and tinnitus. Audiologists must recognize these symptoms for timely diagnosis and management of these vascular tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Otolaryngology
- Radiology
Background:
- Glomus tumours of the skull base are rare but present with significant audiological symptoms.
- These symptoms, including hearing loss and tinnitus, necessitate awareness among audiologists.
- Tumour classification impacts the conductive and sensorineural components of hearing impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review major series of skull base glomus tumours in the literature.
- To compare audiological findings with the Cambridge series classification (Fisch types A-D).
- To highlight the importance of audiological assessment in diagnosing glomus tumours.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of major series of skull base glomus tumours.
- Analysis of audiological findings (hearing loss, tinnitus) based on tumour classification.
- Comparison of symptom duration and extent of disease.
Main Results:
- Mixed hearing loss was consistently found in all Fisch types.
- Symptom duration varied, with limited middle-ear tumours having shorter histories than extensive lesions.
- High incidence of hearing loss (85%) and tinnitus (92.5%) reported, with delayed consultations.
Conclusions:
- Audiologists should suspect glomus tumours in patients with pulsatile tinnitus or retrotympanic masses.
- Early otological opinion is crucial, involving audiological assessment and advanced imaging.
- Awareness of glomus tumours is vital for audiologists managing patients with these symptoms.