Malignant melanocytic schwannoma of the nasopharynx

A rare case of malignant melanocytic schwannoma in the nasopharynx is presented. Light microscopy showed proliferation of spindle-shaped tumor cells with mitoses. The essential histological hallmark was melanin deposition. Electron-microscopic examination confirmed the schwannian differentiation of the tumor cells. The patient has remained well without evidence of metastasis or local recurrence of the tumor 18 months after the excision of the neoplasm.