Abstract:

Objective

To investigate the ultrasonographic imaging and clinical features of pelvic nerve sheath tumors in female patients, in order to improve their recognition.

Methods

From March 2019 to October 2023, patients with pelvic nerve sheath tumors who underwent gynecological ultrasound, surgical treatment, and pathological examination at the Gynecologic Center Ultrasound Department of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University were included. Their ultrasound findings and clinical data were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

A total of 11 cases were included, including 9 cases of schwannom and 1 case each of neurofibroma and neurofibromatosis, age of onset: 29-68 years old. Most of them were asymptomatic or found by physical examination. The size of the tumors varied (maximum diameter 29-105 mm), the masses were well-defined, the internal echo was mainly solid-cystic, the shape was mainly regular, and the presence of a hyperechogenic rim was mainly detected in schwannoa. Color Doppler showed that the blood flow in the lesions was mainly grade I.

Conclusion

Pelvic never sheath tumors in female patients have the characteristics of benign tumors on ultrasonographic images and lack typical imaging features. Sonographers should improve their understanding of pelvic never sheath tumors to further improve the accuracy of preoperative diagnosis.

Key words: Female, Pelvic, Nerve sheath, Neurilemmoma, Ultrasound