Localized pruritus: a presenting symptom of a spinal cord tumor in a child with features of neurofibromatosis.

Abstract

Central nervous system (CNS) and spinal cord tumors are not uncommon in patients with neurofibromatosis (NF); however, it is impossible to select patients with NF who are at a particularly high risk. Localized pruritus may be a clue to the presence of a spinal cord or CNS tumor. This is the first report of an infant with features of NF, whose presenting symptom of a spinal cord tumor was localized symmetrical dermatomal itch. Moreover, we review the literature of localized pruritus in CNS and spinal cord tumors and peripheral nervous system conditions.