J Neurol Surg B Skull Base 2016; 77 - LFP-15-03
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1592630

Skull Base Paraganglioma: Diagnosis, Treatment of New Cases, and an Overview of the Literature

Hans Thomeer 1, Eduard Voormolen 2, JanWillem Berkelbach 2, Vedat Topsakal 1
  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
  • 2Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands

Objective: The purpose of this presentation is to report on new cases of paragangliomas treated in the University ENT and Neurosurgery Department in Utrecht. Moreover to compare the existing evidence concerning the efficacy and safety of surgery, radiotherapy or wait-and-scan policy.

Methods: From 2005 to 2015 data from patient charts were collected and reviewed.

Results: One patient (Fisch type A) is treated with surgery, four patients with (Fisch B–C) wait-and-scan policy, two cases with stereotactic radiosurgery (Fisch Type C). No posttreatment severe complications (i.e., cranial nerve palsies, hearing loss, and meningitis) were encountered during follow-up.

Conclusion: For select patients with lateral skull base disorders, given the proximity to sensitive critical structures such as the brainstem, cranial nerves, and cochlea, the technology of Gamma knife Radiosurgery (GKRS) has emerged as a first-line treatment to achieve the paramount goals of long-term tumor control and maintenance of existing neurologic function. In some cases surgery remains a feasible option.