Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam

What is a common finding in a neurofibroma?

1. Increased meningeal density

2. Peripheral nerve sheath tumor

3. Cerebellar obstruction

4. High-grade astrocytoma characteristics

The correct answer is: Peripheral nerve sheath tumor

A common finding in a neurofibroma is that it is classified as a peripheral nerve sheath tumor. Neurofibromas arise from the peripheral nervous system and specifically from the Schwann cells, which are responsible for the myelin sheath that insulates nerve fibers. These tumors are typically benign and can occur sporadically or in association with genetic conditions such as Neurofibromatosis type 1. Peripheral nerve sheath tumors are characterized by their location and origin, and neurofibromas are one of the main types within this category. Identifying the tumor as a peripheral nerve sheath tumor is critical for diagnosis and understanding potential treatment pathways, as these tumors can sometimes be associated with neurofibromatosis, which influences patient management and surveillance strategies. In contrast, other options describe findings that are not characteristic of neurofibromas. For instance, increased meningeal density typically relates to conditions affecting the meninges, while cerebellar obstruction is more relevant to conditions impacting the cerebellum specifically. Characteristics of high-grade astrocytoma pertain to different types of brain tumors entirely, which do not overlap with the typical features seen in neurofibromas.