A Case of Solitary Neurofibroma Arising from Cervical Vagus Nerve in Pregnant Woman / 대한이비인후과학회지

ABSTRACT

Neurofibromas are benign tumors of the peripheral nerve sheath, which occur as either a solitary mass or multiple tumors in association with neurofibromatosis. Solitary vagal neurofibroma in the cervical region is very rare among neurogenic tumors. Unlike schwannomas, neurofibromas have been known to express progesterone receptor and tend to fluctuate during periods of hormonal imbalance. We report a case of a 27-year-old pregnant woman who presented with neck swelling with tenderness. The mass was more enlarged during the gestational period, and she underwent neck surgery after giving birth. At surgery, the mass was found to be originating from the cervical vagus nerve. We exerted to preserve the continuity of vagus nerve during tumor resection. Pathological examination revealed a neurofibroma. It occurred sporadically, not associated with neurofibromatosis. We should be informed that neurofibroma in pregnant woman may be more rapidly enlarged due to pregnancy-associated hormones such as progesterone.