Paraganglioma Management

Paraganglioma Management
Richard Irving MD FRCS (ORL-HNS)

While paragangliomas of the head and neck will usually present to otolaryngologists, they demand a multi-disciplinary approach, and are best managed by teams with an
up to date knowledge of these complex lesions. The genetics of paragangliomas is an intriguing and emerging field, and in many cases, genetic investigation and appropriate referral to a clinical geneticist will be indicated. Accurate diagnosis, can in virtually all cases, be achieved by appropriate imaging and skilled radiological
interpretation. Treatments are becoming more conservative with an increasing acceptance of “watch and wait” and radiotherapy as viable therapeutic options. Where surgery is being advocated the emphasis is on function preservation, modifying traditional approaches in order to achieve this. Post-operatively, cranial nerve rehabilitation with the assistance of a dedicated team of therapists is a vital part of management.