A case of schwannoma originating from the nervus hypoglossus: usefulness of preoperative imaging

Abstract

Schwannoma of the head and neck is rare and presents as a painless submandibular mass. We encountered a case of a schwannoma arising on the right side of the submandibular region. A 46-year-old woman presented with a painless swelling in the right submandibular region. Magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomograhy, and ultrasonography were performed and were extremely useful for preoperative diagnosis. Ultrasonography showed a tumor originating from the nervus hypoglossus. We discuss the usefulness of -ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging. The lesion was totally excised and histopathologically showed a mixture of Antoni-A and Antoni-B patterns. The patient was observed for 3 and a half years and had no signs of recurrence.