CT and MRI imaging of glomus tumors of the temporal bone

Abstract

Glomus tumor is one of the most common temporal bone tumors. Most of them are benign and locally invasive, some are occasionally able to metastasize and have signs of malignancy. Diagnostic imaging is necessary before treatment. Computer tomography (CT) is traditionally used as a primary method of diagnosis, to recognize changes in the temporal bone. Role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in temporal bone tumor diagnosis is not definitively determined.Purpose. To assess the possibilities of computer and magnetic resonance tomography, to develop an algorithm for the application of diagnostic imaging methods in the diagnosis of glomus tumors of the temporal bone.Material and methods. The article presents the experience of diagnosing 30 patients with glomus tumors.Results. The tympanic form of the glomus tumor was observed in 11 cases (37%), tympano-yugular in 19 cases (63%). CT and MRI data totally coincided in cases of small tumors (type A and B). In the presence of extended forms CT ability of assessing bone invasion, involvement of the internal carotid artery, internal jugular vein, and dural sinuses was lower than the MRI.