Care of the patient with carotid body tumors.

The carotid bodies, located at the bifurcation of the carotid arteries, rarely develop neoplasms or carotid body tumors. The most interesting aspects of this rare tumor are its anatomical location, familial tendency, physiologic alterations related to removal, and surgical management. Tumors of the carotid body can occur alone or bilaterally. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential so that resection can be done in the early stage of the disease. Nurses must be aware of the risks and potential complications that may be encountered after surgical excision of this tumor.