Glomus tumor masquerading for 22 years as osteoarthritis of the hip

Glomus tumors are rare benign mesenchymal neoplasms that account for less than 2% of soft tissue tumors. These neoplasms typically are small nodules less than 1 cm in diameter, associated with pain that is exacerbated by tactile stimulation and cold hypersensitivity. We present a case of a large glomus tumor of the left lateral hip associated with a long history of severe pain of the left hip interfering with ambulation. Chronic pain as a result of a subcutaneous glomus tumor is rare and frequently misdiagnosed. In the case reported, a solid glomus tumor presented with 22 years of unilateral hip pain attributed to posttraumatic degenerative joint disease. Excision of a 4 x 3-cm nodule resulted in complete resolution of tenderness and joint pain. Subcutaneous glomus tumors can have unusually large size and location and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of chronic, atypical, or treatment-resistant joint pain.