Conditions › Glomus Tumour
Glomus Tumour – Consultant Diagnosis & Referral in London for Painful Fingertip Lesions
A glomus tumour is a rare, benign vascular growth arising from glomus cells, most often beneath the fingernails or in the skin of the hands and feet. Though not cancerous, these tumours are intensely painful and sensitive to temperature change. At Skinhorizon, we offer accurate diagnosis and safe surgical treatment to relieve symptoms.
Call Us Book ConsultationWhat is a Glomus Tumour?
A glomus tumour is a benign lesion that develops from the glomus body, a specialised structure involved in regulating skin temperature. These tumours are most often found under fingernails but may appear on the hands, feet, or other skin sites. Despite being harmless in terms of cancer risk, they can cause severe discomfort.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of glomus tumours is unknown, but they arise from glomus cells within the skin. Risk factors include:
- Age between 20 and 50
- Female sex (slightly higher incidence)
- Possible genetic predisposition in multiple cases
Glomus Tumour Symptoms
Key symptoms include localised intense pain, pinpoint tenderness, and hypersensitivity to cold. Subungual tumours (under the nail) may show a bluish discolouration or a subtle nail ridge.
Glomus Tumour Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually made clinically. Tests such as MRI, ultrasound, or X-ray may be used to detect small lesions or exclude other conditions like neuroma or melanoma. A Love’s pin test (localised pressure) can reproduce the pain precisely.
Specialist Assessment for Glomus Tumour in Central London
Book a consultant dermatologist consultation in Maida Vale for painful nail bed or fingertip lesions. Diagnosis, MRI referral, and surgical planning as needed.
Call Us Book ConsultationGlomus Tumour Treatment
The gold-standard treatment is surgical excision. This involves removing the tumour along with its capsule. Once excised, pain typically resolves immediately. Recurrence is rare if the tumour is completely removed.
Prognosis
With expert removal, patients experience permanent relief. Nail appearance usually normalises, and long-term outcomes are excellent.
Your first visit — what to expect
- History & examination: Review of pain pattern and inspection of the affected area.
- Diagnostic imaging: MRI or ultrasound if the tumour is not clinically visible.
- Treatment discussion: Options explained, usually recommending surgical excision.
- Aftercare guidance: Wound care instructions and reassurance about expected recovery.
Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 21 August 2025
Experiencing painful sensitivity in your finger or under your nail? Our consultants can diagnose and treat glomus tumours safely and effectively.
Call Us Book ConsultationGlomus Tumour FAQs
Are glomus tumours cancerous?
No, glomus tumours are benign and not cancerous. They do not spread to other parts of the body.
Why are glomus tumours so painful?
The tumours arise from glomus bodies, which are rich in nerve supply and highly sensitive to pressure and temperature, making them extremely painful.
Can a glomus tumour go away on its own?
No, these tumours do not resolve spontaneously. Surgical removal is usually required to relieve symptoms.
How long is recovery after glomus tumour surgery?
Most patients recover quickly, with pain relief almost immediate. Full healing of the nail and skin may take a few weeks.
Can glomus tumours come back?
Recurrence is rare but can occur if the tumour is not completely excised. Careful surgical technique minimises this risk.