Tumors of the Hand

Tumors of the hand can be divided into either soft tissue and/or bony tumors, either benign and/or malignant tumors. Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of tumors within the hand are benign. The most common soft tissue tumor in the hand and fingers is that of a giant cell tumor. This often is a growth off of one of the tendons and presents as a mass which gradually gets bigger over time. It usually does not cause pain, but is prominent and can cause problems with finger motion. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice and there is a small recurrence rate.

Other soft tissue tumors include those of the fine nerves around the fingers, such as neurilemomas and/or growths emanating from the skin which involves the fingers and/or thumb. The most common bone tumor is that of an enchondroma. This is a cartilaginous tumor which is uniquely seen in either the hands or feet of a patient. It often goes unnoticed until there is a relatively trivial trauma to the respective finger and the patient develops a pathological fracture through weakened bone. Treatment for these tumors includes curettage or removal of the bone tumor and bone grafting. A subsequent period of brief immobilization and therapy is warranted. Malignant tumors are subsequently very rare in the hand. If they do occur, then treatment includes either amputation or very sophisticated reconstructive procedures depending on the site of the tumor.