Analysis of vascularity of human neurofibromas.
BACKGROUND
A common misperception is that the vascularity of a tumor can be determined by its gross appearance. Neurofibromas are grossly white in appearance. The degree of vascularity of neurofibromas has not been determined.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine the extent of neovascularization of neurofibromas.


METHODS
Neurofibromas from patients with neurofibromatosis-1 or spontaneous neurofibromas were stained with antibodies against von Willebrand factor (factor VIII-related antigen) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).


RESULTS
Neurofibromas, both spontaneous and congenital, exhibit a high degree of vascularity. In addition, perivascular cells in neurofibromas stain with antibodies to VEGF, an angiogenic factor.


CONCLUSIONS
Neurofibromas, despite their gross appearance, are highly vascular. Their vascularity may be mediated, in part, through the angiogenic factor VEGF.
Arbiser
J L
JL
Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Flynn
E
E
Barnhill
R L
RL
D016228:Endothelial Growth Factors / Q000032:analysis; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D008222:Lymphokines / Q000032:analysis; D008833:Microcirculation / Q000473:pathology; D009455:Neurofibroma / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000737:chemistry; D009456:Neurofibromatosis 1 / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D042461:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A; D042442:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors; D014841:von Willebrand Factor / Q000032:analysis
D016228:Endothelial Growth Factors; D008222:Lymphokines; D042461:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A; D042442:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors; D014841:von Willebrand Factor