99mTC-MDP bone scanning in a subungual glomus tumour

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiology
• Skeletal Imaging

Background:

• Glomus tumors are rare, benign neoplasms typically found in the subungual region of the fingers.
• Paroxysmal pain in the digit can be an indicator of underlying glomus tumor.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and pain relief.

Observation:

• A 37-year-old female presented with a four-month history of intermittent pain in her left index finger.
• Radiography revealed a lytic lesion in the distal phalanx, suggestive of a glomus tumor.
• 99mTc-MDP scintigraphy demonstrated mild decreased activity in the blood pool phase and minimal increased activity on delayed images.

Findings:

• The bone scan findings, while subtle, were consistent with the radiographic diagnosis of a glomus tumor.
• Surgical excision of the glomus tumor was successfully performed.
• This case represents the first reported instance of utilizing bone scintigraphy for diagnosing a glomus tumor of the finger.

Implications:

• Bone scintigraphy may serve as a valuable diagnostic tool for glomus tumors, particularly when radiographic findings are equivocal.
• Understanding the specific scintigraphic patterns can aid in preoperative localization and surgical planning.
• This case expands the literature on imaging modalities for glomus tumors, highlighting the role of nuclear medicine.