Differentiating imaging findings in primary and secondary tumors of the jugular foramen

Abstract

This manuscript by Lowenheim et al. offers a detailed radiological description of lesions involving the jugular foramen. Special attention is drawn to the differential diagnosis of the various histological types of lesions occurring in this challenging area. Though not every lesion in this area can be unequivocally identified preoperatively, the manuscript demonstrates important typical features of benign, semi-malignant and malignant lesions frequently found here. Rarely occurring tumors, such as reactive myofibroblastic lesions, are discussed, as well as their important implications for surgical strategy. The frequent need for preoperative angiography, and probably embolization, underlines the need for multidisciplinary management, including interventional radiologists, ENT surgeons and neurosurgeons. This manuscript, from authors working in each of these fields, gives a helpful overview of the various lesions and can improve successful treatment planning.