Plexiform Neurofibroma: An Unusual Diagnosis of Lip Swellings.

ABSTRACT

Neurofibromas (NF) are seen either as a solitary lesion or as part of the generalized syndrome of NF (NF-1, also known as Von Recklinghausen disease of the skin). In plexiform neurofibroma (PN), there is proliferation of Schwann cells from the inner aspect of the nerve sheath, thereby resulting in an irregularly thickened, distorted, tortuous structure. Oral involvement by a solitary and peripheral PN in patients with no other signs of NF is rarely seen. It is reported that only 4-7% of patients affected by NF display oral manifestations. A solitary PN in a patient with no other symptoms is a diagnostic challenge, more so when the location of the lesion is one of the rarest sites.