Peripheral nerve tumors
DEFINITION
Peripheral nerve tumors are masses that occur on or near the network of nerves (peripheral nerves) that link the brain and spinal cord to other parts of the body. Peripheral nerve tumors may occur anywhere in the body and may affect the function of the peripheral nerves.
Peripheral nerve tumors may be noncancerous (benign peripheral nerve tumors) or cancerous (malignant peripheral nerve tumors), though most are benign. People with some conditions, including neurofibromatosis or schwannomatosis, may be more likely to develop peripheral nerve tumors.
