MIDLINE VENTRAL LINGUAL SCHWANNOMA IN AN ELDERLY PATIENT: A COMPREHENSIVE CASE REPORT
Keywords:
Schwannoma, Neurilemmoma, Tongue, LingualAbstract
Schwannomas, also known as neurilemmomas, are benign, encapsulated growths that emerge from the Schwann cells, which are vital for insulating our peripheral nerves. While these tumors can appear almost anywhere in the body, their presence in the oral cavity is quite uncommon. Even within the mouth, though the tongue is the most frequent spot, reports of schwannomas there are still rare in medical literature. This detailed case report brings to light an exceptionally unusual occurrence: a schwannoma found on the median inferior (ventral midline) surface of the tongue in an elderly male patient. Our patient first noticed a mass that was growing slowly and, remarkably, caused no pain, prompting us to investigate further. Advanced imaging, specifically Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), offered crucial insights, revealing a distinct, encapsulated lesion with tell-tale signal patterns. The definitive treatment involved carefully removing the entire mass through a transoral surgical approach. A thorough examination of the removed tissue under the microscope confirmed it was indeed a schwannoma, showing its characteristic Antoni A and Antoni B cell arrangements. Importantly, the surgical margins were clear, indicating a complete removal. Following the surgery, the patient made a smooth and positive recovery, with no complications or signs of the tumor returning during the follow-up period. This report aims to highlight the unusual location and the patient's age, both of which are atypical for lingual schwannomas. It strongly emphasizes how vital it is to consider this benign type of growth when evaluating any persistent mass on the tongue. Such careful attention ensures an accurate diagnosis, allows for timely and appropriate treatment, and ultimately leads to excellent long-term outcomes for patients, even in the face of such unique presentations.
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