Head and neck paraganglioma

A paraganglioma in the head or neck is a rare tumour arising from nerve tissue near blood vessels and nerves. It often grows slowly, but can affect swallowing, hearing, voice and nerve function, and may be hereditary.

• A slowly enlarging, sometimes pulsating swelling on one side of the neck.
• A pulsing sound in one ear, hearing loss, ear pain or a mass behind the eardrum.
• Keep follow-up appointments and scans, even if you have few symptoms.
• Note changes in the swelling, voice, swallowing, hearing, strength and episodes of palpitations.
• Make an appointment for a new or growing swelling in the neck, especially if it pulsates.
• For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.