[Neurogenic spindle-cell tumors of the mediastinum: two cases].
BACKGROUND
Neurogenic tumors can develop from neural cells in any location. They are commonly found, however, in the mediastinum, most often in its posterior compartment. Neurogenic tumors can be benign or malignant. In the anterior compartment, they must be distinguished from their differential diagnoses.


METHODS
We report one case of a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor in the posterior mediastinum of a 29-year-old man and another of a schwannoma of the anterior mediastinum, in an 82-year-old woman.


CONCLUSIONS
Neurogenic tumors of spindle-shaped cells in the mediastinum are generally benign, but can be malignant. Often asymptomatic, they are usually detected on standard pulmonary radiography, but computerized tomography is necessary, supplemented by magnetic resonance imaging, especially for posterior mediastinal tumors, to provide additional information and to assess its possible extension to adjacent structures. Radiographic, clinical, and especially histopathological features are essential for diagnosis.
Saint-Blancard
Patrick
P
Service d'anatomie et de cytologie pathologiques, Hôpital d'instruction des Armées Percy, F-92140 Clamart, France. psbpercy@yahoo.fr
Harket
Anass
A
Bonnichon
Augustin
A
Jancovici
René
R
D000328:Adult; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002277:Carcinoma / Q000175:diagnosis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008479:Mediastinal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis