Paragangliomas of the head and neck region

Abstract

Paragangliomas of the head and neck are a group of neoplasms which occur very rarely. Most of them are benign tumours. Tinnitus, headaches and dysfunction of the cranial nerves are typical symptoms. Some paragangliomas have metastatic abilities and they can produce catecholamines. There are some typical imaging features in CT and MRI scans which help to determine the correct diagnosis without the necessity of performing a biopsy which can be associated with a haemorrhage risk. Therapeutic management consists of the choice between an active observation, surgical procedure, as well as radiotherapy and systemic therapy in the case of malignant paragangliomas.