Retrospective analysis of clinical findings and radiologic diagnostic methods of subungual glomus tumor: a single-center study

Abstract

Background: Subungual glomus tumors, while benign and straightforward to surgically remove, present unique considerations due to their location and the potential esthetic outcomes of the surgical procedure. Accurate diagnosis is vital, and this study shows a retrospective analysis of clinical and radiological diagnostic methods for these tumors in a single center. Methods: Our study included 28 patients who underwent surgery under the preliminary diagnosis of subungual glomus tumor. We analyzed the correlation between clinical signs, diagnostic tests, and radiological methods, focusing on their sensitivity and specificity. Results: The results indicated a high sensitivity for Love’s pin test and Doppler USG and MRI examinations, but their specificity was low. On the other hand, plain radiography, cold ıntolerance, and Hildreth’s test showed the highest specificity with lower sensitivity. Furthermore, solely nail deformities may lead to inaccurate diagnoses, and 14% of our patients underwent surgery with incorrect indications. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive diagnostic approach, employing both highly sensitive tests and highly specific tools, and underscores the importance of a thorough informed consent process given the risks of postoperative nail deformities and unnecessary surgeries. Further research with larger cohorts is needed to better understand and manage these tumors. Level of evidence: Level IV, Therapeutic.