A Diagnostic Dilemma: Incidental Identification of a Gastric Glomus Tumor Radiologically Indistinguishable from GIST

Introduction

Glomus tumors (GTs) are small, benign neoplasms of mesenchymal origin arising from the glomus body, which regulates skin temperature, and are typically situated in the dermis and subcutis layers of the extremities [1]. GT was first reported in 1951 [2]. Although glomus tumors (GTs) predominantly occur in the extremities, particularly in the subungual areas, these tumors can rarely be detected in the stomach [3]. GGTs are frequently observed during evaluations for upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Malignant GGTs are much less common, with conservative estimates suggesting that they account for less than 1% of stomach tumors. This case report emphasizes the importance of diagnostic vigilance among radiologists, as glomus tumors often mimic the radiological features of other submucosal gastric tumors, such as neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) in order to ensure accurate diagnosis in histopathological verification rather than abdominal CT imaging alone.

Publication History

Received: 27 April 2025

Accepted after revision: 10 June 2025

Article published online:
23 June 2025

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