[Imitation of ovarian malignant tumor by malignant schwannoma]

A case is reported of a 78-year old female with a malignant retroperitoneal schwannoma. The diagnosis of schwannoma is often delayed because of the absence of early clinical signs. Clinical examination and computed tomography indicated an ovarian tumour. IVP demonstrated retroperitoneal involvement. Biopsy of a pelvic wall tumour at laparotomy yielded a positive histology for malignant schwannoma. Due to the extensive size and infiltration of the tumour it was deemed inoperable and the patient recommended a trial of radiotherapy. The patient had no manifestation of von Recklinghausen's disease.