Clinical characteristics and strategy for treatment of functional carotid body tumours

Functional carotid body tumours are rare, but linked to malignant hypertension, postoperative persistent hypotension, cranial nerve injury and stroke. The aim of this study is to analyze the treatment options for functional carotid body tumours. Six patients with functional carotid body tumours who underwent surgical procedures were studied retrospectively. They all had abnormal levels of preoperative catecholamine (norepinephrine, 721 ± 452.2 ng/l). One patient presented preoperative hypertension. Preoperative alpha- and beta-adrenergic blockade was carried out. Surgical methods included complete resection (6), saphenous vein interposition (3) and carotid shunt (1). With thorough supervision and treatment, the 6 patients underwent tumour resection. They all experienced intraoperative hypertension while the tumours were being resected. Postoperative problems included endurance hypotension (3/6, 50%), coughing when drinking (3/6, 50%) and deviation of the tongue on protrusion (3/6, 50%). The clinical highlights of functional carotid body tumour include preoperative abnormal catecholamine, peroperative fluctuations of blood pressure level, and regime issues. Operative resection could be the best option for functional carotid body tumours. Careful preoperative evaluation, measurement of serum catecholamine, treatment for alpha- and beta-adrenergic blockade, and gentle intraoperative manipulation are essential to avoid life-threatening complications.