Tumors originating from the nervous system or containing nerve elements and presenting within the oral cavity or pharynx primarily are rarely encountered. Neurofibromas developing about the face and neck most frequently occur in association with generalized neurofibromatosis (von Recklinghausen's disease). Solitary neurofibromas are unusual in these regions. Developing in the submaxillary region, they may secondarily bulge into the floor of the mouth or base of the tongue. Arising in the neck, from the spinal nerves or nerve roots, the cervical sympathetic system or the cervical portion of the cranial nerves, they may in an advanced stage encroach on the pharynx. Primary pharyngeal neurofibromas developing either as a manifestation of von Recklinghausen's disease or as a solitary tumor are extremely rare, the latter more so than the former. A review of the literature has failed to reveal another case of solitary neurofibroma primary in the pharynx similar to that presented