CHANGES IN THE VASOMOTOR REACTION ASSOCIATED WITH GLOMUS TUMORS

Abstract

Two cases of glomus tumors are reported, not only to re-emphasize the significance of the lesion but also to record studies in the derangement of the vasomotor mechanism which is one of the outstanding characteristics of the disease. Tests were made with the patient in a constant temp. room. Readings of both hands were taken and then immersed into cold water at 15[degree] C for 5 min. Recovery readings were then taken. A very rapid reheating of the hand was always observed on the affected side. Following excision of the tumor these changes persisted as long as the patient complained of pain. Persistence of the vasodilatation suggests that pain acts as the afferent stimulus which produces the characteristic vasodilatation.