CAROTID-BODY PARAGANGLIOMA METASTATIC TO BONE - REPORT OF 2 CASES

Two patients with carotid body paraganglioma developed bone metastases 3 and 6 years respectively after surgical excision of the primary tum ors. Plain radiographs showed ill defined metastatic lesions. Scinti g ram using radiolabeled metaiodobenzylguanidine, an analogue of noradre naline that is taken up by neurosecretary granules, showed an abnormal accumulation in the corresponding metastatic lesion. Histologically, nests of epithelioid cells with clear cytoplasm and pyknotic nuclei an d abundant collagen fibers were observed within destroyed trabeculae. Treatment including external radiation and surgery provided pain relie f and early local disease control.