ID: 216029 Digital Nerve Block for a Painful Glomus Tumor of the Finger Tip: A Case Report

Abstract

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant, tumor predisposition disorder that commonly occurs approximately once every 2,500th live births. Mutations of the NF1 gene, especially of neural crest cells, result in functional changes to growth and cellular regulators of neurofibromin, leading to uncontrolled cellular proliferation and increased cancer risk (4). One particular concern for NF1 is the generation of peripheral nerve tumors, including glomus tumors. The classic triad of symptoms of glomus tumors include paroxysmal spontaneous pain, point tenderness, and cold hypersensitivity (10). Generally, the primary management of these tumors is complete resection while attempting to preserve residual neurological function. However, surgical involvement may result in life-changing complications, requiring significant specialization of hand and foot surgeries. Thus, more conservative management should be considered.