A rare type of peripheral nerve sheath tumor: radial nerve schwannoma

Schwannomas, also known as neurilemmomas, are generally benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors developing from Schwann cells. Peripheral nerve sheath tumors account for less than 8% of soft tissue neoplasms. Schwannomas are characterized by a slow-growing and non-infiltrating pattern. We report a 21-year-old, right-handed male, with a mass at his right elbow anterolateral region, that was slowly enlarging and became more painful over time. Magnetic resonance imaging of the right upper extremity revealed a 2.5x2 cm mass with heterogeneous contrast enhancement. The patient underwent complete removal of the lesion. The histopathological diagnosis was schwannoma. The postoperative course was uneventful. Clinically, these tumors may be misdiagnosed as other benign tumors, such as lipomas, synovial cysts or hemangiomas. During surgery, care should be taken to protect the nerve. Schwannomas in the upper extremities can be excised completely with preservation of nerve function and total removal lowers the risk of recurrence.