Paraganglia

The paraganglia (Sympathetic paraganglia) refers to clusters of neuroendocrine cells derived from the neural crest that are associated with the sympathetic nervous system. These cells are primarily located outside the adrenal glands and are involved in the production and secretion of catecholamines, such as norepinephrine and epinephrine. Sympathetic paraganglia are found along the sympathetic chain, which extends from the base of the skull to the pelvis, and include structures such as:

• Carotid body

• Jugular body

• Aorticopulmonary paraganglia (Organ of Zuckerlandl)

• Paraaortic paraganglia

• Coccygeal body

The North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (NANETS) guidelines describe these tumors as extra-adrenal paragangliomas, which are distinct from pheochromocytomas that arise within the adrenal medulla.

The European Association of Nuclear Medicine and the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging also classify these tumors as part of the broader category of paragangliomas, which can be either sympathetic or parasympathetic in origin.Sympathetic paragangliomas are typically located in the abdomen and thorax and are known for their catecholamine-secreting properties, leading to clinical manifestations such as hypertension, palpitations, and headaches.