Solitary intraosseous neurofibroma in the mandible mimicking a cystic lesion: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND: Neurofibromas are benign tumors of a neurogenic origin. If these tumors occur without any other signs of neurofibromatosis, they are classified as isolated neurofibromas. Neurofibromas in the oral cavity mostly occur within soft tissues, indicating that solitary intraosseous neurofibromas in the mandible are rare. Due to the absence of specific clinical manifestations, early diagnosis and treatment of these tumors are difficult to achieve. CASE SUMMARY: A 37-year-old female patient visited our hospital due to numbness and swelling of the gums in the right lower molar area that had persisted for half a month. The patient’s overall condition and intraoral examination revealed no significant abnormalities. She was initially diagnosed with a cystic lesion in the right mandible. However, after a more thorough examination, the final pathological diagnosis was confirmed to be neurofibroma. Complete tumor resection and partial removal of the right inferior alveolar nerve were performed. As of writing this report, there have been no signs of tumor recurrence for nine months following the surgery. CONCLUSION: This case report discusses the key features that are useful for differentiating solitary intraosseous neurofibromas from other cystic lesions.