Imaging findings of benign peripheral nerve sheath tumor in jaw

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the imaging characteristics of peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) in the jaw.

Study design: Imaging studies of 6 patients were retrospectively reviewed. Conventional radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging were performed in all patients.

Results: A fusiform lesion continuous with the nerve was observed in 2 cases, with the tumor arising within the inferior alveolar canal. In the other 4 cases, with the tumor arising outside the canal, the tumor had protruded and eroded into the bone. Protrusion was also present in 1 of the 2 cases, with the tumor arising within the canal. A target or fascicular sign was observed each in 1 case.

Conclusions: A fusiform lesion continuous with the nerve and a target or fascicular sign was only present in a few cases. The PNSTs, however, showed a tendency to protrude into the bone.