neurilemmoma

Common Signs and Symptoms of Neurilemmoma (Schwannoma)

Neurilemmomas, also known as schwannomas, are benign tumors that can occur in any part of the body where there are nerves. The symptoms of neurilemmoma can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor.

Common Symptoms:

• A painless or painful mass that is slow-growing
• Electric-like shock, called Tinel shock (when pressing on the nerve)
• Numbness or tingling sensation in the affected area
• Weakness or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg
• Hearing and balance loss (if the tumor affects the inner ear)
• Dizziness and balance problems
• Pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area

Other Possible Symptoms:

• Facial paralysis
• Trouble swallowing
• Trouble moving the eye
• General aching or burning sensation
• Shooting pains or pins and needles sensation
• Tenderness to palpation (if the tumor is large)

Symptoms can be Vague and Late-Occurring

It's worth noting that neurologic symptoms tend to present late, and symptoms can be vague. In some cases, the only sign of a neurilemmoma may be a palpable mass or cosmetic deformity.

References:

• [3] Schwannoma Symptoms and Types
• [4] Symptoms may differ depending on where the tumor is in the body.
• [5] The cell of origin for a neurilemmoma is the Schwann cell, which is derived from the neural crest.
• [7] Dec 12, 2023 — Symptoms of schwannomas · general aching · burning sensation · shooting pains · feeling weak · pins and needles or a tingling sensation · numbness ...
• [8] Oct 19, 2022 — A benign peripheral nerve tumor can cause symptoms if it presses on the nerve in which it is growing or on nearby nerves, blood vessels or tissues.
• [9] Oct 3, 2024 — Tenderness to palpation is often present; secondary neurologic symptoms may occur if the tumor is large. When involving the C7 nerve root, ...
• [14] What are the symptoms of schwannoma neurilemmoma?

Diagnostic Tests for Neurillemmoma (Schwannoma)

Neurillemmoma, also known as schwannoma, is a type of benign nerve sheath tumor that can be challenging to diagnose. However, various diagnostic tests can help confirm the presence and characteristics of this condition.

• Imaging Tests: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the preferred imaging test for locating and diagnosing schwannomas [3]. MRI produces very clear images of the organs and structures within your body using a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer. This test can help identify the tumor's location, size, and characteristics.
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A CT scan is another imaging test that can be used to diagnose schwannoma [6]. It uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of the inside of your body.
• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): FNA is a minimally invasive procedure where a small needle is inserted into the tumor to collect a sample for histological examination [5].
• Biopsy: A biopsy involves taking a small sample from the tumor with a needle, which can be used to confirm the diagnosis of schwannoma [7]. An expert pathologist examines the tissue sample under a microscope.
• Ultrasound Scan: An ultrasound scan may be used to diagnose schwannomas that are just under the surface of the skin [8].
• Hearing Test: If the schwannoma is located in the auditory nerve, a hearing test (audiogram) and Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) test may be performed to evaluate hearing and confirm the presence of an acoustic neuroma [15].

Other Diagnostic Tests

In addition to these tests, your healthcare provider may also perform:

• General Physical Exam: A general physical exam can help identify any signs or symptoms related to the schwannoma.
• Neurological Exam: A neurological exam assesses nerve function and can help determine if the schwannoma is affecting nearby nerves.
• Nerve Conduction Study: This test measures the electrical activity in muscles as they're moved, which can help confirm the presence of a peripheral nerve tumor [11].

It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Differential Diagnosis of Neurilemmoma

Neurilemmoma, also known as schwannoma, is a benign nerve sheath tumor that can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarity in appearance with other soft tissue tumors. The differential diagnosis for neurilemmoma includes:

• Giant cell tumors: These are aggressive bone tumors that can cause bone destruction and expansion of the sacrum (1).
• Chordomas: These are rare, malignant bone tumors that can involve the spine and sacrum (5).
• Chondroblastomas: These are benign cartilage tumors that can occur in the bones of the extremities and pelvis (5).
• Pleural fibroma: This is a rare, benign tumor that occurs in the pleura, which is the lining surrounding the lungs (9).
• Solitary neurofibromas: These are benign nerve sheath tumors that can be similar in appearance to neurilemmomas (10).

Key Features for Differential Diagnosis

To differentiate neurilemmoma from other soft tissue tumors, it's essential to consider the following features:

• Imaging studies: Advanced imaging techniques such as MRI and CT scans can help identify the location and extent of the tumor (13).
• Histologic examination: A biopsy with histologic examination is crucial for confirming the diagnosis of neurilemmoma (10).
• Clinical presentation: The clinical presentation, including symptoms and physical findings, can also aid in differential diagnosis (14).

References

[1] Context 1: Differential Groups Bone Tumors Osteogenic Tumors ... Neurilemmoma, also known as Schwannoma, are benign, encapsulated nerve sheath tumors composed of Schwann cells that occur on the surface of peripheral nerves.

[5] Context 5: Oct 3, 2024 — Differential diagnoses for these lesions include giant cell tumors, chordomas (when involving the spine), and chondroblastomas. Massive bony ...

[9] Context 9: Sep 17, 2024 — Differential diagnosis​​ On imaging consider localized pleural masses including: pleural fibroma.

[10] Context 10: Histologic examination of the well-circumscribed neurilemmoma shows degenerative changes and a variable presentation of compact spindles, referred to as "Antoni A" bodies and microcystic areas with a high concentration of macrophages and collagen fibers, designated as "Antoni B" bodies.

[13] Context 13: The aim of the study is to identify clinical signs of neurilemmoma of the upper limb, its main ultrasound and X-ray distinctions from other benign tumors of soft tissues. To make a preliminary diagnosis, it is advisable to use different methods of imaging, such as: ultrasound, MRI, radiography.

[14] Context 14: Schwannoma, or neurilemmoma, is a benign nerve sheath tumor most commonly located in the soft tissue. Occasionally, Schwannomas involve osseous structures. The rarity of osseous involvement leads to omission of Schwannoma from the initial differential diagnosis in the majority of cases.