Vascular tumors of the head and neck are abnormal growths originating from blood vessels in the head and neck region. While many are benign and self-limiting, some can be aggressive, causing significant symptoms and complications.
Types of Vascular Tumors in the Head and Neck
– Infantile Hemangiomas
- Most common vascular tumors in infants and children.
- Typically appear as a red or bluish mass on the face or neck.
- Often regress spontaneously but may require treatment if they interfere with breathing, vision, or feeding.
– Vascular Malformations
- Present from birth and grow proportionally with the child.
- Include capillary, venous, lymphatic, and arteriovenous malformations.
- Symptoms vary from mild cosmetic concerns to significant bleeding or airway obstruction.
– Nasopharyngeal Angiofibromas
- Benign but locally aggressive tumors mostly affecting adolescent males.
- Symptoms include nasal obstruction, recurrent nosebleeds, and facial swelling.
- Can extend to the skull base, requiring a multidisciplinary approach for management.
– Glomus Tumors (Paragangliomas)
- Rare, usually benign tumors found near the carotid artery, jugular vein, and along cranial nerves.
- Symptoms include a pulsating neck mass, hearing loss, tinnitus, and voice changes.
- May require surgical excision or radiotherapy, depending on the size and location.
Symptoms of Vascular Tumour Cancer
- Neck Masses: Painless but progressively enlarging.
- Nasal Blockage: Persistent and associated with nosebleeds.
- Voice Changes: Hoarseness or difficulty speaking.
- Ear Symptoms: Hearing loss, pulsatile tinnitus.
- Facial Nerve Weakness: If tumors compress cranial nerves.
Diagnostic Approach
Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Diagnostic methods include:
Treatment Options
Observation:
- Small, asymptomatic lesions may be monitored regularly.
Medical Management:
- Beta-blockers, corticosteroids, or sirolimus for shrinking hemangiomas.
Embolization:
- Pre-surgical procedure to reduce blood flow and minimize bleeding during surgery.
Surgical Resection:
- Recommended for symptomatic, rapidly growing, or cosmetically disfiguring tumors.
Radiotherapy:
- For tumors that are inoperable or have malignant potential.
Multidisciplinary Care
Effective management of vascular tumors of the head and neck often requires a team approach, including: