Intratemporal schwannoma of the facial nerve

Two patients with schwannomas that originated from the region of the geniculate ganglion of the facial nerve are reported. They presented with progressive facial nerve paralysis and variable disturbance of hearing. Computed tomograms demonstrated a mass lesion eroding the temporal bone (petrous portion) and extending into the middle fossa. The treatment consisted of complete excision of the tumor, and a hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis. Computed tomography should be performed on all patients with facial palsy of a progressive nature. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment of facial schwannoma should permit preservation of function of the facial and the acoustic nerves.