Diagnosis and treatment of carotid body tumors: A retrospective analysis of a single-center experience over 12 years

Abstract

Introduction: Carotid body tumor (CBT) is a neuroendocrine tumor, located at the carotid artery bifurcation. Management of such tumors is challenging due to the silent presentation and difficulties encountered during surgical excision which is the standard treatment method. Aim: This study aimed to report our experience in the diagnosis and management of CBTs. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of all CBTs treated at our center during the period from January 2005 to March 2017. The analysis was based on data collected from histopathology database, hospital records, and the follow-up notes from the clinic. Results: A total of 32 CBTs were excised in 28 patients. There were 22 females and 6 males, with a mean age of 44 years. Twenty-four patients had unilateral tumors and bilateral tumors were present in four patients (15%). The mean size of the tumors was 3.5 cm. Surgical excision was achieved under general anesthesia in all cases. Intraoperatively, vascular repair in any form was needed in 41% and permanent cranial nerve injury was detected in 16% of cases. Histopathologically, incomplete excision was found in 13% of cases, and no metastasis was detected. During the follow-up period, there was only one case of recurrence. Conclusions: CBTs are challenging pathology. Despite the lack of recommendations for treatment, early resection is performed to avoid the complications associated with the increased size and the malignant transformation. Routine follow-up for all patients is advised due to the potential recurrence of these tumors.