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Glomus tumors with cystic changes around the ankle
R Tachibana1, M Hatori, M Hosaka
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.
Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery
|October 16, 2001
Summary
This study reports rare, sizable glomus tumors with cystic changes in a patient's ankle. Surgical removal was successful, with no recurrence observed two years post-operation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Glomus tumors are rare mesenchymal neoplasms, typically small and benign, often presenting in the extremities.
- Cystic changes within glomus tumors are exceptionally uncommon, particularly when sizable and located in the ankle.
Observation:
- A 22-year-old woman presented with painless masses on the lateral and medial sides of her left ankle, developing over several years.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans identified sizable cystic and solid masses consistent with glomus tumors.
Findings:
- Microscopic examination revealed perivascularly arranged cells with characteristic smooth muscle cell markers (SMA and HHF-35).
- The tumors, measuring up to 4.5 x 4.0 cm, were surgically excised en bloc.
- Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of glomus tumors with significant cystic degeneration.
Implications:
- This case highlights the possibility of large, cystic glomus tumors in unusual locations like the ankle.
- Successful surgical management and long-term follow-up are crucial for these rare presentations.
- Further research may elucidate the specific factors contributing to cystic changes in glomus tumors.