Definition

Noun: A neurilemoma is a benign tumor that develops from the Schwann cells forming the protective sheath (neurilemma) around a peripheral nerve.

Usage

The term is used in medical contexts to describe a specific type of nerve sheath tumor. It is a precise clinical diagnosis. - The MRI scan revealed a well-defined mass consistent with a neurilemoma on the sciatic nerve. - Surgical removal of the neurilemoma was successful and relieved the patient's symptoms.

Advanced Usage

• Histological diagnosis: In pathology reports, "neurilemoma" specifies a tumor with characteristic Antoni A and Antoni B tissue patterns and Verocay bodies.
• Clinical presentation: It is often discussed in relation to symptoms like localized pain, tingling, or a palpable lump along the course of a nerve.

Variants and Related Words

• Schwannoma: This is a direct synonym for neurilemoma, as both terms refer to a benign tumor arising from Schwann cells.
• Neurilemma: The sheath from which this tumor originates.
• Peripheral nerve sheath tumor: A broader category that includes neurilemomas.

Synonyms

• Schwannoma: The most common and interchangeable synonym in medical literature.
• Benign peripheral nerve sheath tumor: A more general descriptive term.

Related Terms and Phrases

• Vestibular schwannoma: A specific, common type of schwannoma affecting the nerve responsible for hearing and balance (also historically called an acoustic neuroma). This is a related but distinct clinical entity.
• Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST): This is the cancerous counterpart, which is a critical distinction from the benign neurilemoma.

Noun

1. tumor of the fibrous covering of a peripheral nerve