Cervical Intranodal Schwannoma and Its Malignant Transformation: A Case Report With Literature Review

TL;DR

A rare case of a benign cervical schwannoma transforming into a malignant tumor is reported, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring and early diagnosis.

Contribution

The paper presents a rare clinical case of malignant transformation of a cervical intranodal schwannoma, adding to limited existing knowledge.

Findings

A 46-year-old man's benign schwannoma transformed into a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor after 18 months.

Early surgical excision and histopathological evaluation are crucial for detecting potential malignant changes.

Cervical intranodal schwannomas, though typically benign, can rarely become malignant.

Abstract

This case report highlights a rare malignant transformation of a cervical intranodal schwannoma in a 46‐year‐old man. The patient first came in with a slow‐growing, painless nodule in the right neck. Surgical excision was performed and histopathological examinations revealed a benign intranodal cellular schwannoma. Eighteen months later, the mass recurred and a second surgery showed malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) at the same site, confirming malignant transformation. This case adds to the limited knowledge of this rare event.

Cervical intranodal schwannomas, although typically benign, may rarely undergo malignant transformation, presenting as recurrent or enlarging neck masses. Early surgical excision and thorough histopathological evaluation are crucial for diagnosis and monitoring of potential malignant change.

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