[Glomus tumors: anatomoclinical study of 14 cases with literature review].

BACKGROUND

Glomus tumor is a neuro-myo-arterial benign hamartoma. It is a relatively uncommon lesion. The aim of this study is to define all the unusual localizations of glomus tumor.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From January 1999 to December 2006, we included in this retrospective study all patients who had the classic triad of symptoms with histological exam. We analysed epidemiological, clinical and therapeutical features of our patients.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients were found to have histopathologically-proven glomus tumors. The patients, eight men and six women, had mean of age around 42 years. Three unusual locations were found: forearm, sacred region and parasternal. Most glomus tumors occur in the toes and fingertips. They are difficult to diagnose, despite painful symptom, because of their unusual locations.

CONCLUSION

Glomus tumors are rare vascular tumors. The usual presentation is a solitary nodule in the distal portion of a digit, but can also occur wherever, with localizations unaccustomed and disconcerting.