Color Doppler ultrasound morphology of glomus tumors of the extremities.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the value of color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI) in the diagnosis of glomus tumors in the extremities.

METHODS

Sonography results of 62 nodules of 50 patients with glomus tumors in the extremities confirmed by surgery and pathology were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The sex ratio in the group of 50 patients was (female:male) = 5.25:1. Glomus tumors were more common in women aged 30-40 years. 84 % (42/50) of glomus tumors occurred in the fingers, with the thumb being the most common. 2D results showed that 64.52 % (40/62) of 62 nodules were hypoechoic, 30.65 % (19/62) were heterogeneous echo, 4.84 % (3/62) were hyperechoic; 64.52 % (40/62) had a clear border, while 35.48 % (22/62) had an unclear border. CDFI showed that 38.71 % (24/62) had visible rich blood in the tumor, 35.48 % (22/62) had little visible blood in the tumor, and 25.81 % (16/62) had no significant intratumoral blood flow. Of the 50 patients, 92 % (46/50) showed a fixed contact pain, were sensitive to cold stimuli, which was improved by hot water and air, and for which anti-inflammatory treatment was ineffective.

CONCLUSION

Glomus tumors in the extremities had certain ultrasound features, and its internal blood flow was diverse. Understanding this feature may be helpful for the diagnosis of non-typical glomus tumors.