Glomuvenous Malformation of the Neck

Abstract

The cells in glomus body regulate blood flow to the skin and play a role in temperature regulation. Glomuvenous malformations (GVMs), previously reported in literature as glomus tumors or glomangiomas, are usually present in the nail bed. In 1972, Carroll and Berman described the triad of paroxysmal stabbing pain, point tenderness, and cold hypersensitivity associated with these malformations.

We present an unusual case of GVM in the neck of a 17-year-old female presenting with a painful right-sided neck mass. Physical examination revealed an approximately 2.5 × 2 cm right-sided tender neck mass; pain was exacerbated by probing with a pinhead. Computed tomography identified multiple rounded masses in the neck, with the delayed contrast filling. The patient underwent excisional biopsy of the lesion and samples were sent for histopathological examination.

The histopathology report, along with the radiological findings and the clinical presentation, confirmed the diagnosis of GVM. The patient remained symptom-free on long-term follow-up.

Despite absence of previous reports, GVM can occur in neck. Surgical excision can lead to complete resolution of symptoms.

Keywords

glomuvenous malformation - glomangioma - glomus tumors - glomulin - arteriovenous anastamoses - vascular malformations

Publication History

Article published online:
06 August 2019

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