Solitary Neurofibroma of the Maxillary Soft Tissue Causing Bone Destruction: A Rare Presentation

Neurofibroma is a benign tumor of the peripheral nerve. It usually presents as multiple tumors and as a part of von Recklinghausen’s disease. However, rarely, it can occur in solitary form. The clinical diagnosis of solitary neurofibroma poses a challenge to clinicians as a plethora of benign and malignant lesions of the oral cavity have similar clinical presentations. We present a rare case of solitary neurofibroma of the maxillary soft tissue. A systemic clinical examination was performed to rule out neurofibromatosis. Computed tomography showed displaced teeth and bone destruction. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an ill-defined T2 hyperintense lesion involving the posterior aspect of the tooth-bearing alveolar process of the maxilla. The diagnosis of neurofibroma was confirmed by histological analysis and immunohistochemical studies. The tumor was successfully managed with excision. Three years of follow-up showed no recurrence. Solitary neurofibroma of the oral cavity is a very rare presentation. Neurofibroma in the maxilla with bone destruction is reported for the first time in the literature. This article will add to the current literature due to the atypical location and presentation of the tumor.