Glomangiomyoma of the trachea

Abstract

A glomus tumor is an uncommon soft tissue tumor that is most commonly found in the subungual area and a glomus originating in the trachea is extremely rare. Histologically and ultrastructurally, these tumors have been divided into three subtypes: classic glomus tumors, glomangiomas, and glomangiomyomas. Glomangiomyomas account for less than 10% of all glomus tumors and are the least common type. We report a case of a 54-year-old man with glomangiomyoma of the trachea who presented with stridor. We treated the tumor by segmental resection and primary repair via a transcervical approach.

Keywords: Glomangiomyoma; Trachea; Tracheal neoplasms.

Fig. 1

Computed tomographic scan of the chest shows a well-enhanced, polypoid tumor arising from the posterior wall of the upper thoracic trachea.

Fig. 2

Bronchocopic view demonstrates an intraluminally protruding double cone-shaped tumor.

Fig. 3

Resected tracheal specimen shows a protruding polypoid mass arising from the posterior wall of the trachea.

Fig. 4

The tumor is composed of mostly small round to oval cells and is rich in blood vessels and smooth muscle tissue (H&E).

Fig. 5

There are several foci of gradual transition from glomus cells to elongated, smooth muscle cells (H&E).

Fig. 6

Postoperative computed tomographic scan of the neck reveals a normal tracheal air column.