[Neurogenic tumors of the brachial plexus]

The Authors report two cases of solitary neurogenic tumors of the brachial plexus not associated with Von Recklinghausen's disease. Peripheral nerve tumors are relatively rare and only 25% occur above the clavicles. The mass, usually asymptomatic, may cause sensory radicular symptoms or rarely motor deficits in the involved arm. Wide radical excision of a benign neurogenic tumor is the treatment of choice; for malignant tumors, associated with a particularly poor prognosis, a more aggressive surgical approach may be necessary. Adjuvant radiation therapy and chemotherapy do not seem to have any effect on survival rates.