Orbital peripheral nerve sheath tumors

Adam R Sweeney1, Divakar Gupta2, C Dirk Keene3

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.

Survey of Ophthalmology
|August 30, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Peripheral nerve sheath tumors in the orbit are rare and present unique diagnostic challenges. This review summarizes their clinical, histopathologic, radiological, and molecular features for better understanding and management.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Neuropathology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) affecting the orbit and ocular adnexa are uncommon.
  • These neoplasms often exhibit nonspecific clinical signs, diverse locations, and complex management, posing diagnostic difficulties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of orbital and ocular adnexal PNSTs.
  • To summarize current knowledge on their clinical, histopathologic, radiological, and molecular characteristics.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of PNSTs in the orbit and ocular adnexa.
  • Synthesis of information regarding clinical presentation, histopathology, imaging findings, and molecular alterations.

Main Results:

  • PNSTs in this region present with varied clinical manifestations and locations.
  • Histopathologic, radiological, and emerging molecular features are crucial for accurate diagnosis and classification.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding the multifaceted features of orbital PNSTs is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment.
  • Further research into molecular aspects may offer novel therapeutic targets.

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