Intraparotid schwannoma

Diagnoses most commonly associated with a unilateral parotid mass include sialadenitis, pleomorphic adenoma, Warthin tumor, and mucoepidermoid carcinoma. However, rare entities, such as intraparotid schwannoma, must be considered in the differential diagnosis. We present a brief literature review that is illustrative of the current difficulty of preoperative diagnosis of intraparotid schwannoma, which is an exceptionally rare entity, with approximately 80 cases described to date. It may mimic common neoplasms and inflammatory salivary gland conditions on fine-needle aspiration and imaging, but is more likely to be associated with the facial nerve. Depending upon the tumor's spatial relationship to the facial nerve and the extent of neurologic dysfunction, the decision may be made to observe the tumor rather than attempt resection. This potential implication for patient management is a critical consideration that highlights the need for timely, appropriate biopsy and diagnosis.