Peripheral nerve tumors of the hand: Clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment

The majority of the tumors arising from the peripheral nerves of the hand are relatively benign. However, a tumor diagnosed as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) has destructive consequences. Clinical signs and symptoms are usually caused by direct and indirect effects of the tumor, such as nerve invasion or compression and infiltration of surrounding tissues. Definitive diagnosis is made by tumor biopsy. Complete surgical removal with maximum reservation of residual neurologic function is the most appropriate intervention for most symptomatic benign peripheral nerve tumors (PNTs) of the hand; however, MPNSTs require surgical resection with a sufficiently wide margin or even amputation to improve prognosis. In this article, we review the clinical presentation and radiographic features, summarize the evidence for an accurate diagnosis, and discuss the available treatment options for PNTs of the hand.