Glomus Jugulare Presenting with Isolated Facial Nerve Palsy

Abstract

Glomus jugulare is a rare slow growing tumor occurring within the jugular foramen that rarely presents with isolated symptoms. Although histologically benign, these tumors are locally destructive because of their proximity to the petrous bone, the lower cranial nerves, and the major vascular structures (Miller et al. (2009) and Silverstone (1973)). We wish to report a glomus jugulare tumor eroding the petrous bone and producing an ipsilateral peripheral facial weakness. The mechanism of this erosion is discussed.

Jugulotympanic Paraganglioma: A Rare Cause of Vertigo

“…Jugulotympanic paragangliomas can present with symptoms secondary to mass effect on surrounding structures, including vasculature or the lower cranial nerves (VII, IX, X, IX) [ 1 , 3 , 4 ] like facial palsy, hearing loss (conductive or sensory), tinnitus, dysphagia, hoarseness, pain, or dizziness. Our patient denied any facial weakness, dysphagia, hoarseness, or pain; her main complaint of dizziness and associated tinnitus were likely from the mass defect of the tumor.…”