Paragangliomas
Paragangliomas Causes
Scientific and medical studies have still not unraveled the underlying cause of Paragangliomas.
Paragangliomas Definition
Paragangliomas are characterized as glomus tumors that are said to be derived from paraganglion tissue or the carotid body. These tumors are typically benign and usually grow in the mastoid and middle ear.
Paragangliomas Diagnosis
A visible pulsatile red mass usually found in the middle ear is often the primary basis of the diagnosis. Audiometry and tuning fork testing may also be able to detect the evidence of conductive hearing loss. Additionally, the cranial nerve testing can also reveal the cranial nerve deficits. A CT scan on the base of the skull can also provide supplementary diagnosis.
Paragangliomas Symptoms and Signs
Among the first symptoms of a Paragangliomas or the glomus tumor in the ear is commonly the pulsatile tinnitus, which will eventually be followed by conductive loss of hearing. Tumors that originate in the middle ear are clinically visible even when small and usually seen in the jugular vein. As the tumor develops, it can cause parlysis of the 7th, 9th as well as the 10th cranial nerves.
Paragangliomas Treatment
Treatment primarily depends on the size of the tumor as well as its site of origin. The age of the patient as well as the general well-being are also taking into consideration. For most elderly patients, the tumors that are relatively small can be removed through a surgical procedure. This can also resolve the conductive hearing loss, as well as the presence of the pulsatile tinnitus. However, in cases where the tumor is large, radiation therapy is often recommended.