160 tumors of neural origin occurring in the thorax were analyzed. The major histological features of schwannoma, neurofibroma, neuroblastoma, ganglioneuroblastoma, ganglioneuroma, and paraganglioma are described. Radiological analysis emphasized shape and location. Calcification was relatively uncommon but may be specific. The comparatively low figures on incidence of rib and vertebral abnormalities might be increased by special studies, including vertebral tomography. Evidence of local spread such as pleura-based nodules and pleural effusion constitutes evidence of malignancy. Age may be the most important clinical parameter for distinguishing between histological types.

Ganglioglioma of the cranial nerves is extremely rare; only a few cases involving the optic nerves have been reported. We present a case of ganglioglioma of the trigeminal nerve, which was isointense with the brain stem on all MRI sequences and showed no contrast enhancement.