A rare primary sacral glomus tumor presenting as intradural-extramedullary tumor: A Case report and review of literature

Rahul Varshney ¹, Preeti Singh ², Sumeet Deshpande ¹

⁰Department of Neurosurgery, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi, India.

Surgical Neurology International +

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July 8, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This study reports a rare case of a glomus tumor in the sacrum, a location where these spinal tumors are infrequent. Surgical removal led to a successful outcome with no recurrence, highlighting effective treatment for this rare condition.

Area Of Science

Neurosurgery
Oncology
Pathology

Background

Glomus tumors are exceptionally rare in the spine, with only eight reported cases, and one instance in the sacrum.
This case highlights a glomus tumor presenting as sacral S1/S2 radiculopathy.

Observation

A 48-year-old male presented with left lower extremity weakness due to S2 radiculopathy.
MRI revealed an intradural extramedullary mass at S1-S2, measuring 1.8 × 1.9 × 4.3 cm, with inhomogeneous contrast enhancement.
The mass extended through the left foramen.

Findings

The patient underwent S1-S2 durotomy for gross total excision of the mass.
Histopathological examination confirmed the mass as a glomus tumor.
Postoperatively, the patient achieved ambulation without support within two months.

Implications

This case demonstrates that glomus tumors in the sacral region, though rare, can be successfully treated with complete surgical excision.
The favorable outcome suggests good prognosis for patients with sacral glomus tumors following surgical intervention.
Further research into the management of rare spinal tumors like glomus tumors is warranted.

Keywords:

Glomoid cells Glomus tumor Intradural extramedullary Intraosseous Sacrum