Unexpected posterior mediastinal mass: A case report and literature review

Glomangioma is an uncommon hypervascular tumor typically found in the extremities, with primary occurrences in the mediastinum being exceedingly rare.

A 38-year-old male presented to our cardio-thoracic surgery department with chest pain. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed a 45 mm posterior paravertebral right solidocystic mass, a finding confirmed by Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with a solidocystic mass in the posterior paravertebral right pleura suggesting a fibrous tumor exhibiting cystic degeneration. Surgical intervention under right thoracotomy involved the complete resection of the tumor. Postoperative analysis confirmed the diagnosis of a glomus tumor.

Glomus tumors are uncommon growths that arise from neuromyoarterial glomus bodies, which are specialized structures involved in regulating blood flow and skin surface temperature through arteriovenous connections. Our case represents the ninth instance of a glomus tumor in the mediastinum. The clinical manifestation of intrathoracic glomus tumors lacks specificity and can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor, often resembling typical thoracic tumors. Surgical resection remains the foremost approach for diagnosing and treating thoracic glomus tumors. Given the potential for malignancy, a radical resection is advised to ensure complete removal with clear margins.

This case describes an uncommon presentation of a benign glomus tumor in the posterior mediastinum, highlighting its exceptional localization and emphasizing the critical importance of surgical resection for optimal management.