Vertigo Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Vertigo, including details on causes, symptoms, treatment, dizziness.

Short-term tumor control and acute toxicity after stereotactic radiosurgery for glomus jugulare tumors.

Poznanovic SA, Cass SP, Kavanagh BD

Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 4200 E. 9th Avenue, Box B-205, Denver, CO 80262, USA. sheripoz@yahoo.com

OBJECTIVE: Glomus jugulare tumors (GJT) have traditionally been treated by surgery or fractionated external beam radiation therapy (XRT). This study evaluates acute toxicity and short-term efficacy of single-fraction stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for the treatment of GJT. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Eight patients (age range 28-74) with GJT underwent SRS (Brainlab linear accelerator) as primary treatment. A nominal dose of 15-16 Gy was prescribed. RESULTS: After undergoing SRS, 7 of 8 patients (87.5%) reported complete resolution of presenting symptoms. Follow-up MRIs showed tumor stabilization in 100% of patients. Transient vertigo occurred in one patient. One patient suffered acute GI upset and transient lower cranial neuropathy. CONCLUSION: Stereotactic radiosurgery is an effective alternative for patients with GJT in achieving tumor control and resolution of symptoms. EBM rating: C-4.

Published 27 February 2006 in Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg, 134(3): 437-42.
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