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Glomus tumors may indicate concurrent NF-1 associated disease

Presence of glomus tumors could indicate simultaneous presence of neuro-bromatosis type-1 cancer disposition syndrome, according to researchers.

In a retrospective cohort study, researchers reviewed the charts of all patients who received histopathologic diagnoses of glomus tumors at a large tertiary care center during a 15-year period; the researchers aimed to determine the presence of neuro-bromatosis type-1 (NF1).

Forty-two confirmed glomus tumors were identified in 34 patients; among these, 12 were reported in six patients with NF1. The researchers found no other associations with medical conditions other than NF1.

Women had slightly higher likelihood of having glomus tumors among the general population, as well as in the context of NF1, according to the researchers.

Thirty sporadic tumors were found in 28 patients; however, there were no coexisting medical conditions observed.

According to the researchers, glomus tumors may be underdiagnosed by physicians caring for patients with NF1 because of the relative rarity of the tumor type, and their small size and variability in appearance may subsequently lead to misdiagnosis and/or delayed treatment.

Disclosures: The authors have no relevant financial disclosures.