Benign Peripheral Nerve Tumor

To diagnose a peripheral nerve tumor, your healthcare professional runs tests to find where the tumor is located and what type of tumor it is.

Tests

You might need one or more of the following tests.

• MRI. This is the preferred method for imaging peripheral nerve tumors. This scan uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce a detailed 3D view of the nerves and surrounding tissue. It can help determine whether you have a tumor and whether the tumor is inside or outside the nerve.
• CT scan. A CT scanner rotates around the body to record a series of images. This test is not as useful as an MRI in diagnosing a peripheral nerve tumor. However, your healthcare professional might recommend it if you can’t have an MRI or if they need amore details about the bone near the tumor.
• Electromyogram (EMG). This test records the electrical activity in a muscle when you try to move it. It is used to help locate the tumor and identify which nerves are involved.
• Nerve conduction study. You’re likely to have this test along with your EMG. It measures how quickly your nerves carry electrical signals to your muscles.
• Tumor biopsy. If imaging tests identify a nerve tumor, your healthcare professional might remove and study a small sample of cells from your tumor. This is known as a biopsy. Depending on the tumor’s size and location, you might need local or general anesthesia during the biopsy. The biopsy might be done with a needle with the help of imaging, or it might be done during surgery.
• Nerve biopsy. To help diagnose the type of tumor, your healthcare professional may take a nerve biopsy. This involves taking a small sample of the tissue and sending it to a lab, where it’s studied to look for signs of cancer.