Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Nerve Tumors

Abstract

Nerve tumors are uncommon soft tissue neoplasms predominantly arising from peripheral nerve sheath and Schwann cells. We review the manifestations of benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors, concentrating on distinguishing imaging features of schwannomas versus neurofibromas with an emphasis on treatment implications. Nevertheless, there is often an overlap between the imaging presentation of these two conditions, making the accurate radiologic diagnosis challenging. Therefore, tissue sampling is often needed for a definitive histologic diagnosis. Treatment planning largely depends on symptoms, location of the lesion, and underlying risk factors. Three major syndromes, neurofibromatosis type 1, type 2, and schwannomatosis, predispose patients to peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs), with particular concern about the malignant subtype expression. In patients with suspected PNSTs, correlation of imaging findings with clinical findings and genetic tests is helpful for a more accurate diagnosis and disease management. Some imaging features on magnetic resonance imaging and fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography can be helpful to differentiate malignant from benign subtypes.

Abdominal Wall Schwannoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

“…Although schwannomas may have variable appearances on imaging, certain features can provide clues for their diagnosis. These features include a well-defined margin, homogeneity, and a close relationship to peripheral nerves [10,11]. In our case, the initial imaging findings, while suggestive of a dermoid cyst, did not definitively exclude the possibility of a schwannoma.…”

“…We conducted a comprehensive review of published cases of abdominal wall schwannomas to gain further insights into this rare entity [3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18]. The literature search identified a total of 25 cases, including the present report, which were included in our analysis.…”

“…Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was the most commonly employed imaging modality, followed by ultrasound and computed tomography (CT). Schwannomas typically appeared as well-defined masses with homogenous or heterogeneous signal intensity on MRI [10,11]. They frequently exhibited a close association with peripheral nerves, which could aid in distinguishing them from other soft tissue tumors.…”