Epidemiology of Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors

Abstract

Peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) were first reported over 200 years ago. Since that time, our understanding of their epidemiological characteristics, in addition to their diagnostic and therapeutic implications, has evolved substantially. This evolution of knowledge has been in part due to the advent of newer imaging modalities and increasing use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and MR neurography. In a parallel manner, these technologies have also improved our comprehension of different PNST epidemiological profiles. In this chapter, we examine the epidemiological features of different PNSTs in the hope of gaining a better appreciation of their clinical burden and patient impact.