Benign Peripheral Nerve Tumors

Overview

Mayo Clinic is nationally recognized for developing special surgical techniques to treat peripheral nerve tumors. Because of Mayo's sophisticated diagnostic capabilities, Mayo doctors are often able to identify nerve conditions which either had been misdiagnosed or not identified at all, and many of these conditions can be successfully treated.

Diagnosis

Patients first have a detailed physical examination. High resolution MRI is often used to look for tumors. If a suspicious mass is found, a biopsy may be done to determine the type of tumor and whether the cells are benign or malignant. Read more about peripheral nerve tumor diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Surgery to remove the nerve tumor is the most common treatment for benign peripheral nerve tumors. Surgeons at Mayo Clinic are highly skilled at safely removing nerve tumors. Once a benign tumor has been surgically removed, it is highly unlikely another tumor will develop in its place and long-term follow-up is typically not necessary. Read more about peripheral nerve tumor treatment options.

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About Peripheral Nerve Tumors

Dumbbell tumors are an unusual type of peripheral nerve tumor.

Peripheral nerves are the extensive network of nerves that link the brain and spinal cord to all other parts of the body. A tumor can sometimes form on or nearby a peripheral nerve and affect its function. Early diagnosis and treatment is critical to reduce the potential for nerve damage and loss of muscle control.

Nerve tumors may occur anywhere in the body. The vast majority of peripheral nerve tumors are benign (not cancerous) and their cause is unknown. Some are caused by neurofibromatosis or schwannomatosis (genetic disorders of the nervous system). Patients with neurofibromatosis need careful monitoring to ensure that previously benign tumors do not turn malignant. (See types of nerve tumors.)