Publish date: Posted on
Last updated: May 25, 2022
Keywords #
neurofibroma
neurofibromatosis
Diagnosis #
Neurofibromas are well circumscribed, benign growths composed of neuromesenchymal tissue and residual nerve fibers.[1] They are common growths that can be seen as solitary nodules or in syndromes such as neurofibromatosis. Neurofibromas are usually soft or rubbery, skin-colored nodules that can range from a few millimeters up to 2 cm. Most neurofibromas can be treated by simple excision or shave removal, if desired.
Key Concepts #
- Solitary neurofibromas are benign growths common in adults.
- Many neurofibromas can be a sign of systemic disease such as neurofibromatosis, as can larger, “plexiform” neurofibromas.
- Simple neurofibromas can be treated by simple excision or shave removal, but they generally require no treatment because they are benign growths.
Epidemiology #
Solitary neurofibromas are commonly found in adults in both men and women. [2]
Clinical Features #
- Solitary, skin-colored, soft or rubbery papulonodules
- Usually between a few millimeters and 2 cm
- The “buttonhole” sign is commonly seen –meaning the tumor is easily invaginated
Differential Diagnoses #
- Nevus (including congenital melanocytic nevus)
- Dermatofibroma
- Schwannoma
- Lipofibroma
Diagnostic Workup #
Neurofibromas are a clinical diagnosis. No diagnostic workup is necessary. [4] If a patient has more than one neurofibroma and other signs of neurofibromatosis, a work-up for this entity is warranted.
Treatment #
Neurofibromas can be removed by simple excision.
References #
- Bolognia, Jean, et al.Dermatology.[ElectronicResource]. Fourth edition., Elsevier, 2018.EBSCOhost,
- Kang, Sewon, et al.Fitzpatrick’sDermatology.[ElectronicResource]. 9th ed., McGraw-Hill Education LLC., 2019.EBSCOhost,
- Bolognia, Jean.DermatologyEssentials.[ElectronicResource]. Saunders, 2014.EBSCOhost,
- Soutor, Carol, and Maria K. Hordinsky.ClinicalDermatology.[ElectronicResource]. 1st ed., McGraw-Hill Education, 2013.EBSCOhost
