A carotid body tumor is a growth that develops in the blood vessels next to the major arteries on either side of your neck, known as the carotid arteries. These arteries transport blood from your heart to your head and brain. Carotid body tumors are also called carotid body paragangliomas or carotid body chemodectomas.

Are Carotid Body Tumors Benign?

Most carotid body tumors are benign, meaning they are not cancerous. Studies show that less than 10% of these tumors are malignant (cancerous).

Who is Susceptible to Carotid Body Tumors?

Carotid body tumors can affect anyone, but they are more common in women and individuals assigned female at birth. They typically occur in people over the age of 20.

How Rare are Carotid Body Tumors?

Carotid body tumors are rare, affecting approximately 1 in 30,000 individuals.

How Will a Carotid Body Tumor Impact Me?

Carotid body tumors often do not cause pain, but doctors may recommend their removal because they can grow and put pressure on the blood vessels in your neck, leading to other symptoms.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the Symptoms of a Carotid Body Tumor?

Initially, a carotid body tumor may not cause any symptoms. However, as it grows, it can press on nearby nerves and blood vessels. Symptoms may include:

• Hoarseness
• Numbness in the tongue
• Sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

What Causes Carotid Body Tumors?

The exact cause of carotid body tumors is not well understood. They are more common in individuals who experience oxygen deprivation (hypoxia). About 90% of cases occur sporadically, meaning they can affect anyone, while around 10% have a familial component, indicating a genetic predisposition.

Diagnosis and Tests

How Do Healthcare Providers Diagnose Carotid Body Tumors?

Doctors start with a physical examination of your head and neck. If they suspect a carotid body tumor, they may order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis.

What Tests Do Healthcare Providers Use to Diagnose Carotid Body Tumors?

Imaging tests used to diagnose carotid body tumors include:

• CT scan
• Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)
• MRI
• Ultrasound

Management and Treatment

How Do Healthcare Providers Manage Carotid Body Tumors?

Doctors will assess your symptoms and may recommend treatments such as:

• Surgery to remove the tumor
• Radiation therapy
• Transcatheter embolization to stop blood flow to the tumor, which may be done before surgery to shrink the tumor

If a large carotid body tumor is removed surgically, a hole may be left in the carotid artery. During surgery, a patch or graft may be used to close the hole and restore the artery.

Are There Complications Associated with Carotid Body Tumor Treatment?

While many people do not experience complications after treatment, the procedure involves many blood vessels. Potential post-treatment complications include:

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Damage to cranial nerves
• Healing problems at the surgical site
• Stroke

How Soon Will I Experience Improvement After Carotid Body Tumor Treatment?

Recovery after surgery typically takes three to four weeks. It's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions for incision care and ask about self-care during recovery.

Prevention

How Can I Lower My Risk of a Carotid Body Tumor?

There is no known way to prevent or reduce the risk of developing a carotid body tumor. If you have a family history of these tumors, discuss your risk with your healthcare provider.

Outlook / Prognosis

What Can I Expect if I Have a Carotid Body Tumor?

Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and suggest treatment based on the tumor's size. If they recommend observation (watchful waiting), notify them promptly if new symptoms develop.

Is a Carotid Body Tumor Curable?

In most cases, surgical removal of a carotid body tumor eliminates the need for further treatment.

Living With

When Should I Consult My Healthcare Provider if I Have a Carotid Body Tumor?

If you notice any new symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They will discuss appropriate treatment options with you.