Question

Enumerate different sites of head and neck paraganglioma with their principal arterial supply.

Hint:

Paragangliomas of the head and neck are most commonly found at the carotid body, jugular bulb, and along the vagus nerve.

Answer 1

Head and neck paragangliomas are rare, vascular tumors that arise from the paraganglia, which are clusters of neuroendocrine cells. These tumors are most commonly found in specific regions of the head and neck. The principal arterial supply to these tumors is often derived from nearby vessels.
Step 1: Common Sites of Paragangliomas in the Head and Neck:
1. Carotid Body: Located at the bifurcation of the common carotid artery, this is the most common site of paragangliomas. The blood supply comes from the external carotid artery.
2. Jugular Bulb: Located at the base of the skull, near the jugular vein, and supplied by branches from the internal carotid artery.
3. Vagal Paraganglia: These tumors arise along the vagus nerve and receive blood supply from branches of the external carotid artery.