What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Amputation Neuroma
• Pseudoneuroma
• Supernumerary Digit Associated Neuroma

What is Traumatic Neuroma? (Definition/Background Information)

• Traumatic Neuroma is the benign proliferation of a nerve, due to a prior injury or trauma. The nerve tumor is formed due to a reactive or regenerative process, at the site of injury or trauma
• It is a condition that can affect individuals of any age. However, it is associated with individuals, who have undergone an amputation
• A simple surgical excision is considered to be curative. The prognosis for Traumatic Neuroma is excellent, with suitable treatment

Who gets Traumatic Neuroma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• A Traumatic Neuroma may occur at any age
• Both males and females may be affected with equal frequency
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background can be affected. Worldwide, no geographical localization of Traumatic Neuroma has been reported

What are the Risk Factors for Traumatic Neuroma? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Traumatic Neuroma include:

• It is common in individuals, who have undergone amputation of the extremities (hands, feet); hence, it is also known as Amputation Neuroma
• The benign proliferation usually occurs in regions, where there are previous injuries

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Traumatic Neuroma? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of Traumatic Neuroma formation is unknown. The condition is thought to occur as a reactive process
• Since, it is associated with trauma, it is thought to be an abnormal response to trauma, resulting in the formation of a benign tumor
• No genetic mutations or genetic predisposition have been identified as the cause

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Traumatic Neuroma?

The signs and symptoms of Traumatic Neuroma include:

• The tumors occur as a firm nodule on the skin. No discoloration of skin on top of the nodule may be observed
• The tumors are painful, when pressure is applied on them. Sometimes, the pain may persist, even if there is no pressure applied at the tumor site
• These tumors can occur anywhere in the body in the region of trauma
• The Supernumerary Digit type of Traumatic Neuroma occurs in the hands and feet of newborns

How is Traumatic Neuroma Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Traumatic Neuroma may involve the following:

• A thorough physical examination, correlated with a complete medical history (including family and social history). A history of trauma to the region is very important for a diagnosis
• Biopsy of the tumor: The pathological examination of the biopsy may show characteristic histological findings, when examined by a pathologist under a microscope. The pathologist may use special techniques, such as immunohistochemistry stains, to help arrive at a diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Traumatic Neuroma?

A few complications of Traumatic Neuroma include:

• The tumor can cause severe pain
• Tumors present on the legs can cause walking difficulties
• Recurrence of the tumor, if incompletely removed

How is Traumatic Neuroma Treated?

• The treatment of Traumatic Neuroma, a benign tumor, is a complete surgical excision that results in a cure
• Once the tumor is completely removed, it usually does not recur. An incomplete removal of the tumor may result in a recurrence

How can Traumatic Neuroma be Prevented?

Currently, there are no definitive methods available to prevent Traumatic Neuroma occurrence.

What is the Prognosis of Traumatic Neuroma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

Traumatic Neuroma is a benign tumor. The prognosis is excellent upon its complete surgical removal, which is also curative.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Traumatic Neuroma:

• The pathologist will find that the tumor is positive for S100 immunohistochemical protein and collagen type IV. The tumor is also positive for neuron specific enolase, myelin basic protein, and CD 57 (Leu-7)
• It is important to distinguish Traumatic Neuroma from palisaded, encapsulated neuroma