Glomus Tumors: Diagnosis, Classification, and Management of Large Lesions

TLDR

Glomus tumors of the temporal region and skull base range from microscopic lesions to large, destructive, neurologically aggressive tumors, but modern diagnostics and surgery now allow confident management. The authors aim to introduce a new classification system for glomus tumors. They reviewed a series of large skull‑base chemodectomas and described the definitive surgical technique employed by The Otology Group, PC. The study discloses the new classification, reflecting advances that make management of these historically dreaded lesions practical. Published in Arch Otolaryngol 1982;108:401‑406.

Abstract

• Glomus tumors of the temporal region and skull base can range in size from small microscopic lesions confined to the promontory to large destructive and neurologically aggressive agents of substantive incapacitation. Contemporary diagnostic and surgical technology has made definitive management of these historically dreaded lesions confidently practical. Prompted by these advances, a new classification of glomus tumors is disclosed. The specific problem of the large chemodectoma at the skull base is addressed and a series of such cases reviewed. Surgical therapy is viewed as definitive, and the technique employed by the members of The Otology Group, PC, is described. (<i>Arch Otolaryngol</i>1982;108:401-406)