How fast do glomus tumors grow?

Glomus tumors grow slowly and can only be detected by MRI years following the first appearance of the symptoms [6,7]. Subungual glomus tumors mostly occur in female patients [8], while for tumors located in other areas of the body, there is no sex predilection [3].

How is a glomus tumor diagnosed?

Imaging studies — Glomus tumors of the head and neck are diagnosed primarily through MRI and CT scans. The specific locations of these tumors are usually sufficient for a diagnosis. Angiograms — Because of their vascular nature, your doctor may also order an angiogram to confirm the diagnosis of glomus tumors.

Are glomus tumors rare?

Glomus tumors are rare, benign, vascular neoplasms arising from the glomus body. Although they can develop in any part of the body, they commonly do so in the upper extremities, most frequently subungual areas.

How common is a glomus tumor?

Most of the nodules are solitary but can occur in clusters. Glomus Tumors represent 1 to 5\% of all soft tissue tumors in the hand and fingers.

Should glomus tumor be removed?

Complete surgical excision provides definitive treatment. For multiple glomus tumors, excision may be difficult because the tumors may be poorly circumscribed. Excision should be limited to symptomatic lesions.

Why are glomus tumors so painful?

The classic history of glomus tumour is excruciating paroxysmal pain, severe point tenderness, and cold sensitivity. The mechanism of pain may be attributed to contraction of myofilaments in response to temperature changes, leading to an increase in intracapsular pressure.

Where are glomus tumors most commonly found?

Glomus tumors, or paragangliomas, are slow-growing, usually benign tumors in the carotid arteries (major blood vessels in your neck), the middle ear or the area below the middle ear (jugular bulb). Glomus tumors are most often benign; however, they can cause significant damage to surrounding tissues as they grow.