Vascular masses in the middle ear.

High resolution computed tomography (CT) is of great value in demonstrating soft tissue masses in the middle ear cavity. However, tissue characterisation even for vascular masses after contrast enhancement has proved disappointing. Differentiation therefore depends upon the site and anatomical configuration of the mass, and in many cases angiography is mandatory for diagnosis. Examples of high ectopic jugular bulb, glomus jugulare and glomus tympanicum tumours and aberrant internal carotid artery are presented and their differential diagnosis considered. The value of CT and more traditional techniques, particularly lateral tomograms to show the spur of bone between the jugular bulb and internal carotid artery, are discussed.