Plexiform neurofibroma of the oesophagus: a mimicker of malignancy

We report the first case of a plexiform neurofibroma of the oesophagus, presenting with dysphagia in a 67-year-old man known to suffer from von Recklinghausen's neurofibromatosis. The clinical symptoms and radiological findings mimicked malignancy, and raised considerable concern. Numerous investigations failed to elucidate the benign nature of the condition. The diagnosis was finally achieved at surgery and the patient was successfully treated by oesophageal resection. Plexiform neurofibromas, though only found in 20-30% of affected individuals are pathognomonic of von Recklinghausen's neurofibromatosis. This report highlights the tendency of plexiform neurofibromas to grow extensively and encase surrounding structures, thereby mimicking a neoplastic process.