Multiple paragangliomas of the head and neck - a case report

Abstract

Paragangliomas are rare, most commonly non-malignant tumors of the autonomic nervous system. Their location within the head is rather an exception than a rule, similarly as their multifocal prevalence. The authors of this paper present a case of a patient with bi-focal paraganglioma. The first symptom of illness was facial nerve palsy, diagnosed for the period of about 3 years. After making the initial diagnosis of tympanic paraganglioma, the tumor was operated. During the next 7 years, there was a reccurence within the temporal bone. What is more, periodic imaging examination showed a second foci within the neck, moreover asymptomatic. The authors discuss the natural development of paragangliomas in the region of head and neck and present the current knowledge about management of patients with a suspicion, diagnosis and treatment of this disease.