A case of Glomus tympanicum tumor

Abstract

A case of Glomus tympanicum tumor is herein reported. The patient was a 69-year-old female who complained of a left hearing loss and pulsatile tinnitus. The otoscopic examination revealed a reddish and pulsatile tumor in the tympanic cavity. The tumor seemed to be located within the tympanic cavity based on the CT and angiographic findings. A radical mastoidectomy and radiation therapy were performed. The absence of any tumor recurrence was confirmed 17 months after her discharge. We also reviewed the 19 cases of Glomus tympanicum tumors previously reported in Japan and determined that pulsatile tinnitus is an important symptom for making an early diagnosis.