C47: Malignant neoplasm of peripheral nerves and autonomic nervous system

Malignant neoplasms of peripheral nerves and the autonomic nervous system refer to a group of uncommon cancers that grow in the nerves situated outside the brain and spinal cord, and in the network of nerves that control involuntary actions, such as heartbeat and digestion. These malignancies, often termed neurosarcomas, can originate in any area of the body's peripheral and autonomic nervous systems. While cause and risk factors are not clearly defined, they can sometimes develop from inherited disorders such as neurofibromatosis. Symptoms vary greatly depending on the nerves involved, and can range from pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the affected area, to problems with heart rate, blood pressure, or digestive function. The disease progression is typically slow, but these cancers can invade nearby tissues and metastasize to other parts of the body, which leads to more severe neurological symptoms.