Neurofibroma

Abstract

Benign neurofibroma most often occurs in association with von Recklinghausen disease, but may also occur independently. In von Recklinghausen disease sarcomatous changes occur without previous irradiation. Critical location and recurrence are the most common reasons for treatment of benign neurofibroma. Definitive radiation may be used in circumstances such that complete excision is not feasible, or where debulking plus radiation therapy may lead to control, or when excision to any extent is severely limited. High dose radiation therapy is then recommended. The limited literature for this condition is worthy of review prior to considering treatment. The usual proviso for risk-benefit and informed consent should be followed. Seventy-three percent of radiation oncologists in the national survey would not treat neurofibroma.