Recurrent digital glomus tumor: analysis of 75 cases

Abstract

Background: Glomus tumors are rare, benign, cutaneous neoplasms that must be excised completely to prevent recurrence.

Objective: To investigate factors associated with recurrence of glomus tumors after surgery.

Methods and materials: Fifty-eight women and 17 men with digital glomus tumors underwent surgery between 1990 and 2008 at our hospital. These cases were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS Mean age at diagnosis was 41.8, with an average diagnostic delay of 3.9 years. The tumor was located on a finger in 70 cases (right, 29; left, 41) and a toe in five (right, 3; left, 2). The tumor recurred in 13 (17%) patients. Recurrence was more likely if the tumor was skin-colored (odds ratio (OR)=31.67, 95% confidence interval (CI)=2.68-373.74, p=.006) or located within the nail matrix (OR=5.79, 95% CI=1.03-32.49, p=.046). No recurrence occurred in patients who had had preoperative magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound studies.

Conclusion: Skin-colored tumors or those in the nail matrix are at higher risk of recurrence. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.