A case report of laryngeal schwannoma

Abstract Laryngeal schwannomas are rare benign nerve sheath tumors that represent up to 1.5% of all benign laryngeal tumors F.S. Rosen (Laryngoscope 112:997-1002). All laryngeal schwannomas are encapsulated submucosal tumors that arise predominantly in the supraglottis and originate mostly from the internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (F.S. Rosen (Laryngoscope 112:997-1002), P. Zbären (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 121:837-839)). We present a case of a 28-year old lady who presented with dysphonia, globus sensation, significant reported loud snoring with witnessed apneas at night. Flexible nasolaryngoscopy showed a smooth and firm mass in the right supraglottic area, which appeared to be pedunculated to the aryepiglottic fold with ball and valve displacement into the laryngeal vestibule. At the time of clinical examination, the lesion was seen to obscure at least two-thirds of the view of the vocal cords. However, the patient has no stridor. CT neck and thorax with contrast was done, revealing a right supraglottic mass extending to the right aryepiglottic fold. The case was discussed in the multi-discipilinary team meeting, and the recommendation is for microlaryngeal surgery, which was done through the cold steel technique. Then the mass was excised completely. The lesion was sent for histopathological assessment, which revealed schwannoma. Regular follow up was done with no signs of recurrence.