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Glomus tumors
W De Maerteleire1, P Naetens, L De Smet
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital Pellenberg, Belgium.
Acta Orthopaedica Belgica
|June 8, 2000
Summary
This study on glomus tumors found surgical resection provided immediate pain relief in 13 patients. No recurrences were observed, indicating successful treatment for these often-debilitating hand and foot tumors.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Dermatology
- Oncology
Background:
- Glomus tumors are rare, benign neoplasms often presenting with severe pain.
- Diagnosis can be delayed due to nonspecific symptoms, averaging 1.9 years in this series.
- These tumors predominantly affect women, with a mean age of 44 years.
Observation:
- The study reviewed 13 glomus tumors in 12 patients operated between 1991 and 1999.
- Most tumors (12/13) were located in the distal phalanx of the fingers, with one on the hand dorsum.
- A unique case involved a bilateral glomus tumor associated with neurofibromatosis in a child.
Findings:
- Surgical resection was performed for all glomus tumors.
- Histology confirmed the diagnosis in all cases.
- Immediate and complete pain relief was achieved post-surgery.
Implications:
- Surgical excision is an effective treatment for glomus tumors, offering rapid symptom resolution.
- The low recurrence rate suggests a favorable long-term prognosis after complete resection.
- Increased awareness may improve diagnostic timelines for patients with glomus tumors.