Distribution of Glomus Tumors in Fingers

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Glomus tumor has known as smaller than 1 cm, hard to palpate, therefore patients often suffer from chronic pain. Based on our experiences about glomus tumors, we would like to evaluate their distributions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study includes 24 cases that underwent surgery for clinically diagnosed glomus tumor from January, 2001 to May, 2009. Clinical symptoms were firstly evaluated and ultrasonography in 8 cases and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in 5 cases were performed for more accurate diagnosis and localization. Complete resection with biopsy was done in all cases. RESULTS: According to pathologic findings, 20 out of 24 cases were reported as glomus tumor, and the other 4 cases were 2 fibrous tumor with chronic inflammation, 1 hemangioma, and 1 neuroma. Twenty glomus tumors at dorsal side under the nail were distributed to proximal radial in 11 cases, proximal ulnar in 6 cases, distal radial in 2 cases and distal ulnar in 1 case. Tumors were more frequently found at proximal in 17 cases(85%) and at radial side in 13 cases(65%). CONCLUSIONS: Glomus tumors tend to occur under nail of proximal and radial part. We think that accurate diagnosis and location of glomus tumors are needed to complete surgical resection.