Cranial granular-cell tumor of the trigeminal nerve

Granular-cell tumors are exceedingly rare neoplasms in the central nervous system. Their histogenesis has been a subject of longstanding controversy but substantial findings support the current theory of a Schwann cell origin. Other recent histopathological studies point to an astrocytic origin in those tumors which arise from the cerebral hemispheres. A case of a granular-cell tumor arising from the trigeminal nerve is described. The origin, clinical course, radiological features, and treatment of such unusual intracerebral tumors are discussed.