paraganglioma (glomus tumor)

aka: chemodectoma

arise from extra-adrenal portions of paraganglion system
females > males
5% ==> multiple
a/w branchial arch mesodermal derivatives
sites:
- jugular fossa ("glomus jugulare")
- middle ear ("glomus tympanicum")
- along vagus nerve ("glomus vagale")
- also: larynx, orbit, nose, aortic arch

Charles E. Kahn, Jr., MD - 2 February 1995
Last updated: 1 October 2013