The pathobiology of human neuromas: an electron microscopic and biochemical study

The formation of neuroma scar after trauma or neurorrhaphy is believed to be mediated by the response of collagen forming fibroblasts. In this study of twenty human neuromas, myofibroblasts were identified as a component of the scar. These cells occurred singly or as aggregates. There was a qualitative increase of myofibroblasts during the period from two to six months post-injury. From six months to one and one-half years post-injury, numbers and aggregations of myofibroblasts diminished, concurrent with collagen proliferation. Ultrastructural alcian blue staining and biochemical analyses revealed a glucosamine--glycosaminoglycan matrix within neuromas when compared to control nerves. Myofibroblasts appear to play a part in the pathobiology of human neuromas.