Search

Carotid body tumour (CBT) is the most common paraganglioma of the head and neck and may compromise neurovascular structures such as carotid vessels, and cranial nerves. Intracranial extension from the mass is possible if left untreated. The main treatment for CBT is surgical resection albeit extremely challenging due to tumour hypervascularity and its relationship to the carotid artery. A bilateral CBT, however, is a rare occurrence. Herein, we present a case of a man who presented to us with bilateral painless and palpable neck mass. He underwent staged bilateral CBT excision and it was complicated with left hypoglossal nerve palsy, which recovered over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sternal osteomyelitis and mediastinitis are rare yet severe complications post-cardiac surgery, often associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Fungal etiologies, particularly those caused by Rhizopus spp., are infrequent but can lead to aggressive infections. Here, we present the case of a 68-year-old male who developed sternal osteomyelitis and mediastinitis caused by Rhizopus spp. two weeks following coronary artery bypass grafting surgery. Debridement and pectoralis flap reconstruction were performed following clinical identification and confirmation with microbiological examinations and a CT scan. Prompt recognition, aggressive surgical intervention, and targeted antifungal therapy were crucial for successful management. This case underscores the importance of considering fungal pathogens, such as Rhizopus , in the differential diagnosis of post-cardiac surgery infections, as well as aggressive treatment to improve outcomes for affected patients., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Tiew et al.)