Neurogenous tumors in the neck.

Abstract

NO GROUP of tumors in the neck is so rare, so curious, and so little understood as those of neurogenous origin. The cells which compose these tumors are derived from the neural crust and are classified as neurectodermal in origin. The neurectodermal neoplasms are identified by a characteristic benign or malignant arrangement. The cells associated with the individual type of tumor are the Schwann cells, the ganglionic cells, and the paraganglionic cells. The Schwann cell is a most interesting and versatile cell and the one responsible for the majority of the tumors of neurogenous origin in the neck. It forms the sheath around the nerve fibers and possesses an extensive regenerative potential, even to the point of producing fibrous tissue. Its benign neoplastic growth can occur in any nerve fiber possessing a neurilemma. This includes the cranial nerves and sympathetic systems in Fig. 2.—Tumors of neurogenous origin occurring in the