Neurogenic tumors of the small intestine. Review of the literature and report of a case with endoscopic removal.

Epigastric pain and melena prompted the study of a woman with cutaneous neurofibromatosis (von Recklinghausen's disease). Roentgenographic and endoscopic examination demonstrated an ulcerated polypoid neurilemoma of the duodenum. It was removed by endoscopic electrosurgery. Neurogenic tumors of the intestine are rare, but should be considered in the differential diagnosis when patients with multiple café au lait spots or cutaneous neurofibromatosis manifest epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, or intestinal obstruction. Endoscopic polypectomy may offer a low risk method of treatment for sutably located bleeding neurogenic tumors of the stomach or duodenum.