Gastric Glomus Tumor: A Clinicopathologic and Immunohistochemical Study of 21 Cases

Abstract

Gastric glomus tumors (GGTs) are rare mesenchymal tumors. Most glomus tumors occur in the distal parts of the extremities. Here, we retrospectively analyzed the features of GGTs from two institutions. The histologic and clinical findings of all GGT cases from 2009 to 2018 were reviewed. The most common location was the antrum, the mean age of patients was 49.3 years, and the mean tumor size was 2.1 cm. Microscopically, small, round cell nodules surrounded the expansion of blood vessels in a nest pattern. Immunohistochemical assays for vimentin and smooth muscle actin (SMA) were positive, and assays for H-caldesmon and calponin were partially positive. GGT is rare and easily misdiagnosed before operation. However, immunohistochemistry is useful for the differential diagnosis. The majority of GGTs are benign, and local surgery achieving complete resection is the most effective treatment method.