Peripheral neck nerve tumor: A 73-case study and literature review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Peripheral neck nerve tumors are rare neoplasms.
• Malignant forms are aggressive and difficult to diagnose.
• Benign tumors have low degenerative potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate diagnostic and therapeutic management of peripheral neck nerve tumors.
• Identify predictive factors for malignancy.
• Assess surgical timing and outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 73 patients treated between 1995 and 2015.
• Analysis of clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging (MRI), and treatment strategies.
• Correlation of patient demographics and clinical signs with tumor type and outcome.

Main Results:

• Mean patient age was 44 years.
• Cervical mass was the main symptom; MRI showed T1 hyposignal and T2 hypersignal.
• Surgery was performed in 99% of cases; chemotherapy used for malignant neuroblastic tumors.
• Neurofibromatosis type 1 and sudden mass increase indicated malignancy; age <10 years suggested neuroblastic tumors.

Conclusions:

• Peripheral neck nerve tumors are predominantly benign with low malignant potential.
• Surgery is the preferred treatment after risk-benefit assessment.
• Consensus on optimal surgical timing for these lesions is lacking.