Malignant transformation in a plexiform neurofibroma of the median nerve

A malignant schwannoma of the median nerve occurred in a 27-year-old woman with multiple neurofibromatosis (von Recklinghausen's disease). A growth had been present at the left wrist since birth and was partially excised at the age of 10 years. The patient refused an amputation and radical local excision did not control this highly malignant tumor.