Nasopharynx paraganglioma with extension in the clivus

Summary.

Paraganglioma is a rare benign tumor arising from the sympathetic nervous system. Here we describe an exceptional case of a paraganglioma located in the nasopharynx with an extension through the clivus up to the dura. Atypically, no contact with any major vessels was found.

A radical resection of the mass was performed by an anterior transmaxillary approach through a Le Fort I osteotomy. One year follow up reveals no signs of local or distant recurrence. No cosmetic changes can be observed after the surgery and nasal and masticatory functions are unmodified.

We review the clinical presentation, workup of paraganglioma, as well as the surgical approaches to the clivus.