Purpose
Glomangiomas of the spine are exceptionally rare benign vascular tumors, frequently misdiagnosed as more common lesions such as schwannomas or meningiomas. Although most spinal glomangiomas exhibit benign behavior, the presence of a BRAF V600E mutations may indicate uncertain malignant potential. Accurate diagnosis and complete surgical excision are essential for favorable outcomes.
Methods
A 43-year-old male with left flank pain was evaluated with thoracic MRI and underwent surgical resection. Histopathological and molecular analyses were performed.
Results
Thoracic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a 2.8 cm ovoid, hypervascular mass adjacent to left T10 transverse process, extending to the posterior hemithorax. Surgical resection was performed, and histopathological examination confirmed a glomangioma with positive smooth muscle actin (SMA) expression and a BRAF V600E mutation.
Conclusions
This case highlights the diagnostic challenge posed by paraspinal glomangiomas and emphasizes the importance of histopathological and molecular analysis in establishing the correct diagnosis. A review of the literature demonstrates that complete surgical excision remains the treatment of choice, with excellent prognosis. The identification of BRAF mutations may warrant closer follow up.