Solitary neurolymphomatosis of the brachial plexus mimicking benign nerve sheath tumour: case report

Br J Neurosurg. 2013 Jun;27(3):386-7. doi: 10.3109/02688697.2012.737959. Epub 2012 Nov 6.

Abstract

Neurolymphomatosis typically appears as a diffuse lesion with thickening of the affected nerves on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI in the present case revealed a well-defined, solitary lesion showing continuity with brachial plexus nerves. Findings including clinical symptoms resembled benign nerve sheath tumour rather than neurolymphomatosis. Intra-operatively, the C8 root was focally swollen, corresponding to a well-circumscribed lesion on MRI. The diagnosis of neurolymphomatosis was obtained only after resection biopsy. Post-operatively, (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography proved useful for follow-up evaluation. We offer the first description of the MRI characteristics of brachial plexopathy in neurolymphomatosis, along with the clinical course.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brachial Plexus Neuropathies / diagnosis*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / diagnosis*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nerve Sheath Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Peripheral Nervous System Neoplasms / diagnosis*