[en] Paragangliomas of the head and neck region - often incorrectly termed ''glomus tumors'' in everyday practice - are rare neoplasms that allow a radiologic diagnosis at first glance. They are found at four predilection sites; In the carotid bifurcation, at the parapharyngeal course of the vagal nerve, around the jugular foramen and in the tympanic cavity. Depending on their location and clinical manifestation they are diagnosed early or late. Therefore, their size may vary between few millimeters and several centimeters. Special problems arise when the tumors occur at multiple locations in the setting of genetic disease. Imaging is essential for establishing a diagnosis, for the description of their extension and for follow-up. Because of their high degree of vascularisation especially vagal and jugular paragangliomas are a challenge not only to the surgeon but also to the interventional neuroradiologist. Super-selective preoperative embolization can decide whether a tumor is operable or not. In individual cases infiltration of the carotid necessitates a temporary balloon test occlusion. (orig.)