HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which type of tumor is associated with peripheral nerves?

1. Fibroma

2. Abscess

3. Neurofibromatosis

4. Epsulis

The correct answer is: Neurofibromatosis

Neurofibromatosis is a genetic disorder that leads to the development of multiple tumors along the peripheral nerves. These tumors, known as neurofibromas, arise from Schwann cells, which are the cells that form the myelin sheath surrounding peripheral nerves. Neurofibromatosis is characterized not only by the presence of neurofibromas but also by skin changes, such as café-au-lait spots, and an increased risk of other types of tumors. In contrast, fibromas are benign tumors composed of fibrous or connective tissue but are not specifically associated with nerves. An abscess is a localized infection that leads to the accumulation of pus in tissues, which also does not relate to tumors of the peripheral nerves. Epulis refers to a type of tumor that originates in the gum tissue; while these can be tumors, they are not associated with peripheral nerves. Hence, neurofibromatosis is the term that accurately describes a condition where tumors are specifically related to peripheral nerve tissues.