Schwannoma Mimicking Laryngocele

Abstract

A schwannoma of the larynx is a rare benign tumor that usually presents as a submucosal mass in the pyriform sinus and the aryepiglottic space, and this type of schwannoma constitutes a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for otolaryngologists. We present here two cases of supraglottic schwannomas that were misdiagnosed as laryngoceles. Both were excised through a lateral thyrotomy approach without a tracheostomy, and the laryngeal function was successfully maintained. We discuss the clinical and imaging findings and the management of this rare neoplasm with focusing on the differential diagnosis of laryngeal schwannoma and laryngocele. We also review the relevant medical literature.

A Cervical Vagal Schwannoma Mimicking a Parathyroid Cyst

“…These are benign, well-circumscribed, encapsulated tumors arising from Schwann cells, a neuroectodermal element of the nerve sheath [6,7]. Cystic changes in vagal schwannoma are extremely rare [1].…”

Laryngeal Schwannoma: Emphasis on Treatment with Surgical Instrument Excision

“…CT scans show a well-defined hypodense mass without local destruction [6]. On MRI, T1-weighted images show variable intensity, which is enhanced with gadolinium while T2-weighted images of schwannomas present with high intensity [11]. The characteristic finding on laryngoscopy is a submucosal mass commonly seen on the aryepiglottic fold, which may result in an obstructed view of the laryngeal inlet or reduced mobility of the vocal fold [11].…”

Une cause inhabituelle de dysphagie haute: schwannome de la loge hyo-thyro-épiglottique

“…L'examen cervical de notre patiente était normal, cependant elle existe des formes cliniques avec une extension extralaryngée pouvant mimer une laryngocèle [ 7 ]. La TDM et IRM jouent un rôle primordial pour déterminer la localisation exacte de la tumeur et son extension, cependant la confirmation diagnostique reste histologique.…”