Glomus Tympanum TumorSymptoms, Doctors, Treatments, Advances & More
Learn About Glomus Tympanum Tumor
A glomus tympanicum tumor is a tumor of the middle ear and bone behind the ear (mastoid).
Paraganglioma - glomus tympanicum; Middle ear paraganglioma
A glomus tympanicum tumor grows in the temporal bone of the skull, behind the eardrum (tympanic membrane).
This area contains nerve fibers (glomus bodies) that normally respond to changes in body temperature or blood pressure.
These tumors most often occur late in life, around age 60 or 70, but they can appear at any age.
The cause of a glomus tympanicum tumor is unknown. In most cases, there are no known risk factors. Glomus tumors have been associated with changes (mutations) in a gene responsible for the enzyme succinate dehydrogenase (SDHD).
Symptoms may include:
- Hearing problems or loss
- Ringing or heart beat sounds in the ear (pulsatile tinnitus)
- Weakness or loss of movement in the face (facial nerve palsy)
Glomus tympanicum tumors are rarely cancerous and do not tend to spread to other parts of the body. However, treatment may be needed to relieve symptoms.
UT Southwestern - Otolaryngology Clinic
Brandon Isaacson is an Otolaryngologist and a Plastic Surgeon practicing medicine in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Isaacson is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Glomus Tympanum Tumor. He is also highly rated in 33 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Glomus Tympanum Tumor, Acoustic Neuroma, Schwannoma, Mastoidectomy, and Endoscopy.
TIROG - Swedish Cancer Institute - Radiosurgery Center
Dr. Landis is a multiple time recipient of the Seattle Top Doctor Award and most recently received the 2024 Seattle Magazine Top Doc Award. He truly enjoys the challenge of caring for cancer patients. A diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming for a patient and their family. From the beginning he will review the diagnosis in detail, the treatment options, and the potential results of each option, including possible side effects. Dr. Landis enjoys seeing his patients over time, during the course of treatment, and in follow-up. Often it takes some time to understand the patients priorities and wishes. As a physician, he believes in prioritizing the patients quality of life and listening to understand their desires and incorporate this into an individualized treatment plan. He strives to provide the best possible care to all of his patients. Dr. Landis is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Glomus Tympanum Tumor. He is also highly rated in 17 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma, Familial Prostate Cancer, Prostate Cancer, and Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor (PNET). Dr. Landis is board certified in American Board Of Radiology. Dr. Landis is currently accepting new patients.
Diabetes And Endocrinology Center At Specialty Services Pavilion
Anupam Kotwal is an Endocrinologist practicing medicine in Omaha, Nebraska. He has been practicing medicine for over 15 years. Dr. Kotwal is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Glomus Tympanum Tumor. He is also highly rated in 12 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Thyroid Nodule, Triple A Syndrome, Thyroid Cancer, and Hypoaldosteronism.
People who have surgery usually do well. More than 90% of people with glomus tympanicum tumors are cured.
The most common complication is hearing loss. Other complications may include:
- Hole in the eardrum
- Bleeding from the ear
Nerve damage, which may be caused by the tumor itself or damage during surgery, rarely occurs. Nerve damage can lead to facial paralysis.
Contact your health care provider if you notice:
- Difficulty with hearing or swallowing
- Problems with the muscles in your face
- Pulsing sensation in your ear
Published Date: October 15, 2025
Published By: James L. Demetroulakos, MD, F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
Gubbels SP, Hartl RB, Crowson MG, Jenkns HA, Marsh M. Temporal bone neoplasms and lateral cranial base surgery. In: Flint PW, Francis HW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 178.
Rucker JC, Seay MD. Cranial neuropathies. In: Jankovic J, Mazziotta JC, Pomeroy SL, Newman NJ, eds. Bradley and Daroff's Neurology in Clinical Practice. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 103.
Verlicchi A, Nicolato A, Valvassori, L, De Donato G, Zanotti B. Head and neck paragangliomas. In: Winn HR, ed. Youmans and Winn Neurological Surgery. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 181.