Giant plexiform neurofibroma of digital nerves: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Neurofibroma is a benign tumor arising from nerve sheath of peripheral nerves, and may present as an isolated lesion or may present as part of von Recklinghausen's disease. Although plexiform neurofibromas usually affect the face, neck, back, and inguinal region, however other areas may rarely be affected. Plexiform neurofibroma of the palm is a very rare entity, which may affect the fine motor functions of the hand. Surgery is the only treatment option available, but due to diffuse involvement of the nerves and infiltrating nature of the lesions, complete resection may be impossible in many of the cases. We are reporting a case of giant neurofibroma of the palm affecting digital nerves in a 37-year-old patient presenting with features of Von Recklinghausen's disease. He presented with pain and swelling over left palm of 8 years duration. We carried out the surgical excision of the mass, and the individual has been followed-up on out-patient basis for about 3 months without showing any evidence of local recurrence.