Overview
Diagnosis
To diagnose a peripheral nerve tumor, a healthcare professional reviews your medical history and asks about symptoms. A general physical and neurological exam is performed to assess nerve function.
Diagnostic tests may include:
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses magnets and radio waves to create a detailed 3D view of nerves and surrounding tissue.
• Computerized tomography (CT), where a rotating scanner takes images that a computer assembles to show the tumor’s size and impact.
• Electromyogram (EMG), involving small needles in muscles to record electrical activity at rest and during movement.
• Nerve conduction study, often done with EMG, to measure how quickly nerves transmit electrical signals to muscles.
• Tumor biopsy, where a small sample of tumor tissue is removed and analyzed to determine if it is cancerous. Local or general anesthesia may be used depending on the tumor’s location.
• Nerve biopsy, sometimes needed for conditions like progressive peripheral neuropathy or enlarged nerves that mimic tumors.
Peripheral nerve tumors are rare, so seeking a provider experienced in their diagnosis and treatment is important. A second opinion may be recommended if needed.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of tumor, which nerves or tissues are affected, and the symptoms you have. Options may include:
Monitoring
Small, slow-growing tumors that cause few or no symptoms may be monitored. This involves regular checkups and imaging, such as MRI, CT, or ultrasound every 6 to 12 months. If the tumor remains stable, monitoring may be extended to every few years.
Surgery
Surgical removal aims to take out the entire tumor while preserving nearby healthy tissue and nerves. When complete removal isn’t possible, surgeons remove as much of the tumor as they can.
• Microsurgery and high-powered microscopes help distinguish tumor tissue from healthy tissue.
• Nerve function can be monitored during surgery to protect healthy nerves.
• Risks include nerve damage, disability, and tumor recurrence, depending on tumor size, location, and surgical approach.
Stereotactic radiosurgery
Some tumors near or in the brain may be treated with stereotactic radiosurgery, such as Gamma Knife. Radiation is precisely delivered to the tumor without making an incision.
• Risks include weakness or numbness in the treated area, continued tumor growth, and very rarely, radiation-induced cancer.
Cancer treatment
Malignant peripheral nerve tumors are treated using standard cancer therapies, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Early detection and treatment improve outcomes, though tumors may recur.
Rehabilitation
After surgery, physical rehabilitation may be needed to restore function.
• Braces or splints may be used to support healing in an arm or leg.
• Physical and occupational therapy can help recover mobility and function lost due to nerve damage or limb changes.
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