What is paraganglioma neck?

Paragangliomas are uncommon neck swellings, usually associated with hypertension and flushing. They occur in the neck and other amine precursor uptake and decarboxylation cell rests, and are a challenge to the anesthetist at the time of excision.

How is a paraganglioma diagnosed?

Tests used to diagnosed paraganglioma include: Blood and urine tests. Your doctor may recommend blood tests and urine tests to measure the levels of hormones in your body. These tests may detect extra hormones produced by paraganglioma cells or a tumor marker called chromogranin A.

What does a neck paraganglioma feel like?

These tumors usually appears in the neck, but can extend into the space between the head and the neck. Some of most common symptoms are pain, hoarseness, fainting (syncope), difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), eye problems (Horner syndrome), and paralysis of the tongue.

Are paragangliomas benign?

Paraganglioma is a type of noncancerous (benign) tumor that occurs in structures called paraganglia. Paraganglia are groups of cells that are found near nerve cell bunches called ganglia. Paragangliomas are usually found in the head, neck, or torso.

Should you biopsy a paraganglioma?

However, a tumor suspected to be a pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma should not have a biopsy, unless it is absolutely necessary to confirm a diagnosis. A biopsy of these tumors can cause a serious and even life-threatening release of catecholamines.

How long can you live with paraganglioma?

Patients with a small paraganglioma that has not spread to other parts of the body have a five-year survival rate of about 95%. Patients with paraganglioma that has grown back (recurred) or spread to other parts of the body have a five-year survival rate between 34% and 60%.

Should a paraganglioma be biopsied?

In a biopsy, the doctor takes a small sample of tissue for testing in a laboratory. However, a tumor suspected to be a pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma should not have a biopsy, unless it is absolutely necessary to confirm a diagnosis.

Where is paraganglioma located?

Paraganglioma is a type of neuroendocrine tumor that forms near certain blood vessels and nerves outside of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are important for making hormones that control many functions in the body and are located on top of the kidneys.