Ganglioneuroma

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"Ganglioma" redirects here. For the rare slow-growing tumor of the central nervous system, see ganglioglioma.
Ganglioneuroma
CT scan of a large ganglioneuroma within the chest cavity
SpecialtyNeuro-oncology

Ganglioneuroma (occasionally called a "ganglioma") is a rare and

fibers arising from neural crest sympathogonia, which are completely undifferentiated cells of the sympathetic nervous system.[1] However, ganglioneuromas themselves are fully differentiated neuronal tumors that do not contain immature elements.[2]

Ganglioneuromas most frequently occur in the abdomen, however these tumors can grow anywhere sympathetic nervous tissue is found. Other common locations include the

retroperitoneum, posterior mediastinum, head, and neck.[1] It is contained within the neuroblastic tumors group, which includes:[3] Ganglioneuroma (benign), Ganglioneuroblastoma (intermediate), Neuroblastoma
(aggressive).

Symptoms and signs

A ganglioneuroma is typically asymptomatic, and is typically only discovered when being examined or treated for another condition. Any symptoms will depend upon the tumor's location and the nearby organs affected.[citation needed]

For example, a tumor in the chest area may cause

trachea compression. If the tumor is located lower in the abdomen, it may cause abdominal pain and bloating. A tumor near the spinal cord may cause spinal deformity or spinal compression, leading to pain and loss of muscle control or sensation in the legs and/or arms.[4]

These tumors may

high blood pressure, increased body hair, and sweating.[4]

Cause

There are no known risk factors for ganglioneuromas. However, the tumors may be associated with some genetic problems, such as

neurofibromatosis type 1.[4]

Pathology

Micrograph of a ganglioneuroma with the characteristic ganglion cells. H&E stain.

Pathologically, ganglioneuromas are composed of

fibrous tissue.[5] Ganglioneuromas are solid, firm tumours that typically are white when seen with the naked eye.[citation needed
]

Diagnosis

Ganglioneuromas can be diagnosed visually by a

urine tests may be done to determine if the tumor is secreting hormones or other circulating chemicals. A biopsy of the tumor may be required to confirm the diagnosis.[4]

Treatment

Ganglioneuroma of the adrenal gland

Because ganglioneuromas are benign, treatment may not be necessary, as it would expose patients to more risk than leaving it alone. [citation needed]

If there are symptoms or major physical deformity, treatment usually consists of surgery to remove the tumor.[citation needed]

Prognosis

Most ganglioneuromas are noncancerous, thus expected outcome is usually good. However, a ganglioneuroma may become cancerous and spread to other areas, or it may regrow after removal.[citation needed]

If the tumor has been present for a long time and has pressed on the spinal cord or caused other symptoms, it may have caused irreversible damage that cannot be corrected with the surgical removal of the tumor. Compression of the spinal cord may result in paralysis, especially if the cause is not detected promptly.[4]

References

  1. ^ a b Jedynak A. Naul GL (ed.). "Imaging in Ganglioneuroma and Ganglioneuroblastoma". Medscape. WedbMD. Retrieved 6 February 2014.
  2. PMID 12235346
    .
  3. S2CID 31684881
    .
  4. ^ a b c d e Dugdale D, Jasmin L (29 August 2012). "Ganglioneuroma". MedlinePlus. A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia. Retrieved 6 February 2014.
  5. ^ Weerakkody Y. "Ganglioneuroma". Radiopaedia.org. Radiopaedia. Retrieved 6 February 2014.

External links

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