Cervical Sympathetic Chain Schwannoma-Our Experience

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Neurosurgery
• Pathology

Background:

• Parapharyngeal space tumours are uncommon, with neurogenic tumours, particularly Schwannomas, being the most frequent primary neoplasms.
• Schwannomas originating from the Vagus nerve are the most common type in this region.
• Schwannomas of the cervical sympathetic chain (CSC) are exceptionally rare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of cervical sympathetic chain schwannoma.
• To detail the clinical presentation, diagnostic process, and management strategies for this rare tumour.
• To contribute to the limited literature on CSC schwannomas.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 30-year-old female patient.
• Review of clinical findings, imaging studies, and histopathological examination.
• Description of the surgical management and post-operative follow-up.

Main Results:

• A cervical sympathetic chain schwannoma was diagnosed in the patient.
• The tumour's clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and successful management were documented.
• This case adds to the understanding of rare neurogenic tumors in the head and neck region.

Conclusions:

• Cervical sympathetic chain schwannomas, though rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of parapharyngeal space masses.
• Multidisciplinary evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and optimal patient management.
• Further case reports are needed to better understand the behaviour and treatment of CSC schwannomas.