Neurogenic tumors of the sciatic nerve: a clinicopathologic study of 35 cases

Thirty-five cases of neurogenic sciatic nerve tumors are described. Pain is the major clinical manifestation but may give rise to diagnostic confusion because of its often prominent site far distant from the neoplasm. Nonpalpable tumors are best identified by computed tomographic scan of the pelvis and thighs. Early surgical therapy is advisable. Neurilemomas are treated by simple enucleation with preservation of the sciatic nerve. They rarely recur. For neurofibromas, total excision is often not possible. As long as they are small and neurologically nondestructive, subtotal excision with preservation of the nerve trunk is recommended. When they are large or have caused marked neurologic dysfunction, radical tumor and nerve resection is required. In the usually highly malignant neurofibrosarcomas, disarticulation of the hip joint or hindquarter amputation affords the best chance for cure and should not be delayed once the diagnosis has been established.