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Trigeminal Nerve Melanotic Schwannoma in Carney Complex
Kumar G G Sharath1, Panduranga Shruthi2, B Varwatte Pooja2
1Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Apollo Hospitals, Sheshadripurum, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
Abstract:
Melanotic schwannoma (MS) is a rare peripheral nerve sheath tumor commonly found in the thoracic paraspinal region. It is present in an intracranial location rarely, with 18 out of 105 MS cases described in the literature. Trigeminal nerve was involved in only six of these cases. Fifty percent of psammomatous melanotic schwannoma (PMS) patients have Carney complex. Carney complex is an autosomal dominant disorder featuring peripheral nerve tumors (schwannomas), myxomas (heart, skin, and breast), skin pigmentation (lentigines and blue nevi), and endocrine tumors (adrenal, testicular, and pituitary). We present a case of left trigeminal nerve PMS as a part of Carney complex. Patient had diffuse lentiginosis. Magnetic Resonance Imaging revealed enhancing lesion along left trigeminal nerve with widened Meckel's cave and foramen ovale. Final diagnosis of PMS was derived on clinical, radiological, and histopathological findings with immunohistochemistry correlation. Key Message Trigeminal nerve can be rarely involved in melanotic schwannoma (MS). Knowledge of typical radiological features of MS is crucial for its diagnosis. Its association with Carney complex should be sought.
Insights
Melanotic schwannoma (MS) rarely affects the trigeminal nerve. This case highlights MS as part of Carney complex, emphasizing the need for radiological and clinical evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- Melanotic schwannoma (MS) is a rare peripheral nerve sheath tumor.
- Intracranial MS is uncommon, with trigeminal nerve involvement being particularly rare.
Observation:
- A case of psammomatous melanotic schwannoma (PMS) involving the left trigeminal nerve is presented.
- The patient exhibited diffuse lentiginosis, a characteristic of Carney complex.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging showed an enhancing lesion along the left trigeminal nerve, affecting Meckel's cave and foramen ovale.
Findings:
- The diagnosis of PMS was confirmed through clinical, radiological, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analysis.
- This case illustrates a rare instance of trigeminal nerve involvement by PMS.
- The patient's presentation was consistent with Carney complex, a genetic disorder associated with various tumors and pigmentation abnormalities.
Implications:
- Radiological recognition of MS features is vital for accurate diagnosis.
- The association between trigeminal nerve MS and Carney complex necessitates thorough patient evaluation.
- Early diagnosis and management of PMS and Carney complex can improve patient outcomes.
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