[Subungual glomus tumors of the fingers: ultrasound diagnosis]

Glomus tumors of the fingers are rare, benign tumors. These lesions are hamartomas, originating from dermoepidermic glomus, most commonly located at the distal phalanx, and in particular under the nail. Diagnosis is often delayed because of the absence of specific symptoms. Confirmation can only be made by histological study. The aim of this retrospective study is to define the role of ultrasound examination in the diagnosis of glomus tumors of the fingers.

During the period March 2002-March 2004, 12 cases of subungueal glomus tumors were included in this retrospective study. All patients underwent ultrasound and Doppler examinations before surgery. All Ultrasound Doppler studies were performed by the same radiologist. The mean age of patients was 44 year-old and the sex-ratio was 1/2.

Pain was noted as a symptom in all patients. The mean size of the tumor was 3.5 mm. In eleven patients, ultrasound study was able to confirm the diagnosis, but it failed in one case because of the small size of the tumor (less than 2 mm). Ten tumors presented a Doppler hypersignal, located in the tumor and compatible with the diagnosis of glomus tumor.

Diagnosis of glomus tumor is based on clinical examination, standard radiology, and ultrasound Doppler study. Ultrasound examination and Doppler study gives better visualization of tumors compared to standard radiology. These studies are useful for follow-up of patients in the post-operative period.