What is an arterial body tumor?
Apr 13, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Jianbin
Introduction
Paraganglioma is a rare endocrine tumor that commonly occurs in the carotid body of the neck. Since paraganglia are important organs of the human endocrine system, primarily located adjacent to the aorta in regions such as the neck, chest, and abdomen, the symptoms of paraganglioma mainly depend on the location and size of the tumor. The tumor may form a mass or swelling on the surface of blood vessels.
Paraganglioma is a neuroendocrine tumor arising from paraganglia, which are clusters of endocrine cells located along arteries; thus, it results from abnormal proliferation of these arterial endocrine cells.
Paraganglioma is a rare type of neuroendocrine tumor that most commonly occurs in the carotid body of the neck. Since paraganglia are important components of the human endocrine system and are primarily distributed alongside the aorta in regions such as the neck, chest, and abdomen, symptoms of paraganglioma largely depend on the tumor's location and size. The tumor may form a mass or swelling on the vessel surface and may compress surrounding neural structures, leading to neurological symptoms such as headache, dizziness, blurred vision, and hearing loss.
Treatment for paraganglioma depends on factors including tumor size, location, and associated symptoms. Small, asymptomatic tumors may be managed through observation, regular monitoring, and medical therapy to control growth and progression. However, if the tumor causes elevated blood pressure or other severe symptoms, surgical intervention or minimally invasive procedures may be required. Surgical options typically include complete tumor resection, thrombectomy within aneurysmal segments, aneurysmorrhaphy (repair of the arterial wall), or prosthetic vascular replacement. Minimally invasive treatments include embolization of the tumor and endovascular stent placement. Patients are advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle and strengthen their immune system.
