- Discussion:
- nerve sheath tumor which arises from schwann cells;
- commonly develop in cranial nerves (most often the 8th nerve);
- most often develops in sensory nerves;
- mass grows slowly and usually does not cause symptoms unless it grows within a confined space such as the tarsal tunnel;
- asked patient about any family history of type-I (peripheral)
neurofibromatosis;
- Classification:
- classic type is the most common (less common include: ancient, cellular, plexiform, epitheliod, glandular, pacinian, melanotic)
- histology shows interlacing fascicles (Antoni A areas) and pallisading of nucleii, which are hypercellular;
- less cellular zones (Antoni B areas)
- S100 protein immunohistochemistry will confirm the diagnosis;
- Treatment:
- in most cases, the neurilemoma can be shelled out from the nerve w/ blunt dissection;
Definition of the Target Sign and Its Use for the Diagnosis of Schwannomas.
