Carotid Body Tumor

Chemoreceptor-derived paraganglioma located at the carotid artery bifurcation.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 10, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Carotid Body Tumor?

Carotid body tumor is a slowly growing paraganglioma of neural crest origin originating from the carotid body, a chemoreceptor located at the carotid bifurcation. It is generally benign in course; however, malignant behavior and metastasis can be observed in 5-10% of cases.

The majority of patients present with non-functional (non-secretory) tumors; however, some can secrete catecholamines. The incidence is increased in those living at high altitude and carrying SDHB, SDHD mutations.

Diagnosis is made with neck Doppler ultrasonography, CT angiography, and MRI; characteristically, it widens the carotid bifurcation (lyre sign). Treatment is surgical resection; embolization may be considered preoperatively.

Symptoms

Painless, slowly growing mass on the lateral neck

Pulsatile mass sensation

Dysphagia and odynophagia

Hoarseness (vagus or recurrent laryngeal nerve compression)

Horner's syndrome (sympathetic chain compression)

Palpitations, headache, hypertension if catecholamines secreted

Headache and syncope

Risk Factors

Living at high altitude

Familial paraganglioma syndromes

SDHB, SDHC, SDHD gene mutations

MEN 2 syndrome

Von Hippel-Lindau disease

Neurofibromatosis type 1

Chronic hypoxia

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

When pulsatile mass is detected on the neck
New onset hoarseness and difficulty swallowing
Family history of paraganglioma
Episodic headache, palpitations, and sweating
Neck mass in those with diagnosis of pheochromocytoma

Treatment Methods

Surgical resection (main treatment)

Preoperative angiography and embolization if needed

α-blockade in catecholamine-secreting tumor

Stereotactic radiotherapy (in inoperable cases)

Genetic testing and family screening

Lifelong biochemical and imaging follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Endokrinoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.