Unilateral orbital schwannoma arising from the supraorbital nerve: Report of a rare case

Abstract

Key Clinical Message Schwannomas are rare tumors in the orbit, typically originating from various nerves and presenting diagnostic challenges. We present a unique case of a unilateral orbital schwannoma arising from the supraorbital nerve. A 55‐year‐old female presented with a painless, slowly growing mass in the right superior orbit, causing proptosis. Visual acuity remained unimpaired, and clinical examination revealed a well‐defined mass in the superior orbit. A provisional diagnosis of an orbital dermoid or cyst was made, leading to excision biopsy. The histopathological examination confirmed a diagnosis of benign schwannoma. Schwannomas in the orbit, particularly those arising from the supraorbital nerve, are uncommon and often challenging to diagnose. Early surgical intervention is crucial to prevent complications associated with tumor growth. This case underscores the need to consider schwannomas as a differential diagnosis for slow‐growing orbital masses in adults and emphasizes the importance of timely management to prevent vision‐threatening complications.

Keywords

• histopathological examination
• orbital tumor
• proptosis
• schwannoma
• supraorbital nerve