Color Doppler ultrasound morphology of glomus tumors of the extremities

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the value of color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI) in the diagnosis of glomus tumors in the extremities. METHODS: Sonography results of 62 nodules of 50 patients with glomus tumors in the extremities confirmed by surgery and pathology were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: The sex ratio in the group of 50 patients was (female:male) = 5.25:1. Glomus tumors were more common in women aged 30–40 years. 84 % (42/50) of glomus tumors occurred in the fingers, with the thumb being the most common. 2D results showed that 64.52 % (40/62) of 62 nodules were hypoechoic, 30.65 % (19/62) were heterogeneous echo, 4.84 % (3/62) were hyperechoic; 64.52 % (40/62) had a clear border, while 35.48 % (22/62) had an unclear border. CDFI showed that 38.71 % (24/62) had visible rich blood in the tumor, 35.48 % (22/62) had little visible blood in the tumor, and 25.81 % (16/62) had no significant intratumoral blood flow. Of the 50 patients, 92 % (46/50) showed a fixed contact pain, were sensitive to cold stimuli, which was improved by hot water and air, and for which anti-inflammatory treatment was ineffective. CONCLUSION: Glomus tumors in the extremities had certain ultrasound features, and its internal blood flow was diverse. Understanding this feature may be helpful for the diagnosis of non-typical glomus tumors.