A neurofibroma is a type of peripheral nerve tumor that forms a soft bump on or under the skin. The tumor can develop within a major or minor nerve anywhere in the body. What Is a Neurofibroma?

Understanding the Context

A neurofibroma is a noncancerous tumor that may feel like a soft bump on your skin. These tumors grow on nerves. Some appear just under your skin’s surface. Some form deeper in your body.

Key Insights

In 90% of cases, they are found as stand-alone tumors (solitary neurofibroma, solitary nerve sheath tumor[1] or sporadic neurofibroma[1]), while the remainder are found in persons with neurofibromatosis type I (NF1), an autosomal-dominant genetically inherited disease. What is a solitary cutaneous neurofibroma? A solitary cutaneous neurofibroma is a common nerve-sheath tumour. It presents as a skin-coloured, soft-to-firm papule or nodule with a smooth surface. Neurofibromas are benign (noncancerous) tumors that grow on nerves in the body.

Final Thoughts

They consist of an overgrowth of nerve tissue along with blood vessels and other types of cells and fibers. Neurofibroma is a benign tumor that develops on the nerve cells and may be a sign of neurofibromatosis. Learn about the types, symptoms, treatment and more. A Neurofibroma is a non-cancerous (benign) tumor that develops from the cells and tissues that cover nerves. Some people who develop Neurofibromas have a genetic condition known as neurofibromatosis (NF). Plexiform neurofibromas (PNs) are types of tumours that grow along nerves, most commonly occurring in children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1).

Learn about the symptoms, causes, treatment and long-term outcomes.