A complete removal of parapharyngeal space schwannoma: A rare case report with review of literature

Abstract

The schwannoma of the parapharyngeal region account for only 0.5% of all the head and neck tumors. Schwannoma, also known as neurilemmoma, is a benign neoplasm that originates from the Schwann cells. These cells form the myelin sheath around myelinated peripheral axons. Most of them are asymptomatic and some presents late. Neurological deficit is a late finding, and it occurs only when the lesion is very large and compresses contiguous structures. Computed tomography (CT) guided fine needle aspiration cytology along with preoperative CT and magnetic resonance imaging can detect and diagnose it correctly and helps in proper planning and management. Total surgical excision is the treatment of choice. We have reported a rare case of parapharyngeal space schwannoma in a 22-year-old male which was compressing the carotid at bifurcation and was surgically excised completely by transcervical approach successfully.