HAND

Glomous tumour of the finger

A glomus tumour is a small, benign tumour, often located under the fingernail, which causes very sharp pain, sometimes triggered by cold or pressure. The diagnosis is suggested by clinical examination and can be confirmed by an MRI scan or an ultrasound scan.

 

Treatment is surgical. It involves the complete removal of the tumour under local anaesthesia, usually on an outpatient basis. When the tumour is subungual, the nail may be lifted or partially removed to gain access to the lesion, and then replaced if possible.

Recovery is gradual. The pain associated with the tumour usually subsides quickly after the operation. The main risks include haematoma, infection, residual sensitivity, abnormal nail regrowth or recurrence if the tumour is not completely removed.