Glomus tumor arising in the tracheal bifurcation: a case report

Glomus tumors are rare, benign mesenchymal neoplasms that account for less than 2% of all soft tissue tumors and are uncommon in visceral organs. Endobronchial glomus tumors are particularly rare, with fewer than 80 cases reported and only three cases of glomus tumor arising in the tracheal bifurcation have been reported thus far.

The patient, a Japanese male in his 70s, was diagnosed with a tracheal mass during a routine health check. He had no specific clinical symptoms. His past medical history included myocardial infarction and brain infarction, and he had been taking three types of antithrombotic medication. Computed tomography revealed a 1.6 cm strongly enhanced mass lesion originating in the posterior wall of the tracheal bifurcation and extending into the left main bronchus. Magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography-computed tomography suggested that the tumor had low malignant potential. Bronchoscopic examination revealed a polypoidal mass, which was later eradicated via high-frequency electrocoagulation and argon plasma coagulation. Pathology confirmed that the mass was a bronchial glomus tumor and negative for malignancy. Owing to the risk associated with carinal resection, the patient was carefully followed up with without radical resection. No airway stenosis or dyspnea was observed during the 41-month follow-up period.

When deciding the optimal treatment strategy for tracheal glomus tumors, the location and malignant potential of the tumor should be considered. Careful follow-up is required if endoscopic treatment is chosen.