Understanding Glomangiopericytoma: A Case Report of a Rare Sinonasal Tumor

Abstract

Introduction: Glomangiopericytoma (GPC) is a benign neoplasm of the sinonasal tract that consists of spindle-shaped to ovoid cells with lobular or nodular growth patterns. GPCs are low-malignant tumors due to limited mitotic activity and atypia, making them less aggressive. The etiology of GPC remains unknown but is associated with factors like steroid use, past trauma, pregnancy, and hypertension. GPC is more common in women and is usually diagnosed in the sixth and seventh decades of life. Case Presentation: This article presents a case of a 47-year-old woman with a history of type-2 diabetes and nasal obstruction who was diagnosed with glomangiopericytoma (GPC), a rare sinonasal tumor. Computed tomography revealed a vascular mass, and complete surgical resection was achieved via a trans-nasal approach. The diagnosis was confirmed through positive β-catenin staining and negative S100p and STAT6 with a low Ki67 proliferation index. The patient experienced post-operative pain, anosmia, and ageusia, which were treated successfully. This case highlights the clinicopathologic characteristics, clinical and therapeutic aspects, surgical interventions, and differential diagnosis of GPC, a rare disease with limited reports. Conclusion: Glomangiopericytomas are benign sinonasal tumors often mistaken for other neoplasms. Diagnosis is challenging but possible through excision or biopsy with histopathological examination. Endoscopic surgery with follow-up is the recommended treatment, with recurrence occurring up to 12 years post-surgery. CTNNB1 gene mutations and β-catenin nuclear expression are recent diagnostic markers. GPC has a high survival rate and low metastasis, but patients should be closely monitored. This case report underscores the importance of comprehensive diagnosis and management for these rare tumors.