Peripheral nerve sheath tumors: an update and review of diagnostic challenges

Peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) are one of the more common soft tissue neoplasms encountered in the daily surgical pathology practice, most of which have classic histologic features. There are, however, some common diagnostic challenges encountered by surgical pathologists and neuropathologists, as well as controversies regarding classification and grading of PNSTs. As molecular studies advance and novel targeted therapies are developed, it has become imperative that we become familiar with the diagnostic criteria for these common neoplasms and their potential mimics.