Hand tumors: I. Skin and soft-tissue tumors of the hand

Abstract

Hand tumors of the skin and soft tissue are frequently encountered by plastic surgeons. Although similar to lesions affecting other parts of the body, the presentation, workup, and treatment options often differ in the hand secondary to its complex anatomy and functional significance. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of those lesions that commonly arise in the hand-including epidermal inclusion cysts, ganglion cysts, and glomus tumors-in addition to tumors such as soft-tissue sarcomas that are rare but nonetheless require astute diagnosis and expedient initiation of treatment. Presenting symptoms and clinical features, recommended workup, and appropriate treatment options are reviewed. Copyright © 2014 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.