Bilateral Tumour of the Carotid Body: Diagnostic and Surgical Aspects

Abstract

As pointed out in an earlier paper (Engström, Hamberger, Holmer & Rignell), the existence of the carotid body has long been known, and there is an abundant literature on its development, structure and function. Tumours of this organ have been described in a number of publications (e.g. Le Compte, Eggston & Wolff, Lahey & Warren, Lewison & Weinberg). An account is given in the following of a bilateral tumour of the carotid body, which presents features of interest from both the clinical and histologic points of view.

A bilateral tumour of the carotid body, combined with several endocrine disturbances, is observed in a 26-year-old woman.

The importance is stressed from the diagnostic point of view of careful, bilateral carotid angiography, preferably with close serial exposures, owing to the rapid blood flow through the tumour. Angiography often shows a picture characteristic of these tumours.

An account is also given of the surgical technique, and it is pointed out that the tumour can generally be freed from the internal carotid artery, so that this vessel can be preserved.

The importance is also emphasized of keeping a continuous check on respiration, heart rhythm and blood pressure during operations of this type. The reflex effect on the heart of manipulation of the vagus nerve can be decreased by high block of this nerve.