Glomus jugulare tumor

Alternative Names

Treatment

Glomus jugulare tumors are rarely cancerous and do not tend to spread to other parts of the body. However, treatment may be needed to relieve symptoms. The main treatment is surgery. Surgery is complex and usually done by both a neurosurgeon and a head and neck surgeon.

In some cases, a procedure called embolization is performed before surgery to shrink the tumor.

After surgery, radiation therapy may be used to treat any part of the tumor that could not be removed completely.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Patients who have surgery or radiation tend to do well. More than 90% of those with glomus jugulare tumors are cured.

Possible Complications

The most common complications are due to nerve damage, which may be caused by the tumor itself or damage during surgery. Nerve damage can lead to facial paralysis, hearing loss, and difficulty swallowing.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you notice a lump in your neck, if you are having difficulty with hearing or swallowing, or if you notice any problems with the muscles in your face.

References

Goetz, CG. Textbook of Clinical Neurology. 2nd ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2003: 1038.

Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. St Louis, Mo; Mosby; 2005:3721-3724.