Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) are soft tissue sarcomas arising from a peripheral nerve or a pre-existing benign nerve sheath tumor or are sarcomas with features of Schwann-cell differentiation. Differentiating between benign and malignant PNSTs can be challenging. The chapter begins with a case example and then discusses assessment, investigations (including imaging), and diagnosis of malignant PNSTs, as well as the steps involved in decision-making about management of a malignant PNST. The surgical principles and goals for resection of a malignant PNST, the adjuvant therapies used in treatment, and the complications and outcomes of treatment are presented.