Malignant carotid body tumor: a report of two cases.

Abstract

Case one- A 23-year-old woman presented with a right-sided neck mass. History, physical examination, and appropriate imaging suggested malignant paraganglioma with evidence of lymph node, vertebral, and lung metastases. Surgical excision of the tumor and regional lymph nodes was done. Histopathological assessment of the retrieved specimens confirmed the diagnosis. Case two - A 29-year-old woman presented with a left submandibular swelling. She was appropriately investigated, and the diagnosis of a malignant carotid body tumor was made with evidence of lymph node metastasis. Surgical resection of the tumor with clear margins was done and histopathological analysis of the resected specimen confirmed the diagnosis. CBT's are the most common tumors of the head and neck. Most are nonfunctioning, slow growing, and benign. They typically present in the fifth decade of life but can occur at a younger age in individuals who carry certain genetic mutations. Both cases of malignant CBT's that we encountered occurred in young women. Furthermore, the 4-year and 7-year history in case number one and two, respectively, supports the fact that CBTs are slow growing tumors. In our case series, the tumors were surgically resected. Both cases were discussed in multidisciplinary meetings and were referred for hereditary testing and radiation oncology for further management. Malignant carotid body tumors are rare. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is important to improve patient outcomes.