The nervous system plays an indispensable role in malignant tumor formation and development. In the meantime, malignant tumors also affect the structure and function of the nervous system. Tumors promote their growth and survival by activating the process of nerve development and regeneration. In turn, peripheral nerves provide nutrients for cancer cells and stromal cells in the tumor micro‑environment, promoting the occurrence and progression of malignant tumors in various systems. This review summarizes the interaction between malignant tumors and the nervous system and explains their mechanisms. It also introduces the treatment methods and research advances in terms of tumors' interaction with the nervous system, aiming to provide a reference for future in‑depth research on the interaction between the nervous system and tumors.