Carotid body paraganglioma, also known as carotid body tumor or chemodectoma, is a rare benign or malignant tumor that develops in the carotid body, a small cluster of specialized cells located at the bifurcation of the carotid arteries in the neck. The carotid body is responsible for regulating blood flow, oxygen levels, and pH balance in the blood.
Carotid body paraganglioma arises from paraganglionic cells, which are neuroendocrine cells that are part of the body's autonomic nervous system. These tumors usually grow slowly and are typically non-cancerous (benign), but in rare cases, they can become malignant and spread to other parts of the body. They are more commonly found in middle-aged individuals, and the causative factors are still largely unknown.
The symptoms of carotid body paraganglioma depend on the size and location of the tumor. Small tumors are often asymptomatic and may be discovered incidentally during medical imaging exams. As the tumor grows, it can cause a noticeable lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, hoarseness, pulsating sensation in the neck, or changes in voice.
Diagnosis of carotid body paraganglioma typically involves a thorough physical examination, imaging tests such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as a biopsy to confirm the tumor's nature. Treatment options vary based on the size, location, and characteristics of the tumor, but they typically involve surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, or a combination of both. Regular follow-up visits are important to monitor for potential recurrence or metastasis.
