Question:

I am a 54 year old female and has a large carotid body tumor on the right side of my neck. It was dignosed about 12 years ago. Last MRI was done in 2004. I have decided to live with it without any surgical intervention. There are no health problems.

Do you know how many patients have successfully lived with this type of tumor? Is it a genetically programmed tumor?

Answer:

At 54 years of age, I would suggest seeing a vascular surgeon and getting it taken care of. While there can be risks associated with the operation, they are generally low. As long as it is present, you have a significant risk of developing one on the other side as well. I would discuss with a vascular surgeon and get some up-to-date information that may not have been shared with you when you were first evaluated. Best of luck!

For more information:

Go to the Vascular Surgery health topic.