MRI of Spinal Neurofibroma

Neurofibroma is a type of tumor that develops from the nerve tissue. It’s a condition often associated with neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form on nerve tissue. These tumors are usually benign (non-cancerous) but can occasionally become malignant (cancerous).

Symptoms

Symptoms of spinal neurofibroma vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• Pain: Often the first symptom, due to the tumor pressing on nerves or the spinal cord.
• Neurological Issues: Including numbness, weakness, or loss of function in the arms or legs.
• Changes in Bowel or Bladder Function: Resulting from pressure on the spinal cord.

Treatment

Treatment options for spinal neurofibroma depend on the size, location, and symptoms caused by the tumor:

• Monitoring: Small, asymptomatic tumors may only require regular monitoring with imaging tests.
• Surgery: In cases where the tumor is causing significant symptoms or neurological deficits, surgical removal is often recommended. However, complete removal can be challenging due to the tumor’s location and its involvement with nerve tissues.
• Radiation Therapy: This may be used in some cases, although it’s less common due to the risk of further complications.