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Schwannomas and Neurofibromas

  • Marcello Marchetti
  • Elena De Martin
  • Laura Fariselli
Chapter
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Abstract

Intradural tumors of the spine are rare. Two thirds of these tumors are extramedullary. Nerve sheath tumors, including both schwannoma and neurofibroma, are intradural extramedullary tumors and usually benign. Surgery represents the first-choice treatment for spinal intradural extramedullary tumors, including schwannomas and neurofibromas. On the other hand, whether it is the most appropriate approach for all cases and in particular in the setting of recurrence, or in the case of residual or multiple lesions, remains an open question. Moreover, some patients are less than ideal candidates for surgery and could be better treated with a noninvasive modality like radiotherapy. Barriers to radiation have included a concern for radiation-induced myelopathy and radiation-induced transformation. Despite this, at present, the number of the patients treated by radiation and in particular stereotactic radiosurgery is increasing. With respect to the latter, results of the first experiences are at least considered promising such that many have adopted radiosurgery as a primary treatment modality. The current literature and the most recent clinical results are summarized in this chapter.

Keywords

Radiosurgery Radiotherapy Spine Neuroma Schwannoma Neurofibroma Benign tumor Intradural Extramedullary 
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Copyright information

© Springer International Publishing AG, part of Springer Nature 2018

Authors and Affiliations

  • Marcello Marchetti
    • 1
  • Elena De Martin
    • 1
  • Laura Fariselli
    • 1
  1. 1.Radiotherapy Unit, Department of NeurosurgeryC. Besta Neurological Institute FoundationMilanItaly

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