Metastatic tumours of the temporal bone. A histopathological report.

Metastatic tumours of the temporal bone seem to be more common than is recognized. Most of these tumours are microscopic and asymptomatic in nature. Microscopic examination of 22 temporal bones belonging to 13 cases of metastatic tumours is reported. The commonest site of involvement in the temporal bone was the petrous apex followed by the tegmen tympani, mastoid bone and internal auditory canal. Primary tumours were most commonly located in the breast. Other sites of primary tumours included the thyroid gland, brain, lungs, prostate and blood (leukaemia). Two cases had undetermined sites of origin. Full neurotologic evaluation is indicated in every case suspected of having a temporal bone metastasis. All three modalities (of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy) are used in combination for the treatment of these tumours.