Ultrasonographic and Clinical Characteristics of Schwannoma of the Hand

Utility of sodium fluorescein in recurrent cervical vagus schwannoma surgery

Background

Cervical schwannoma is a rare neoplasm that usually occurs like a nondolent lateral neck mass but when growing and symptomatic requires radical excision. Sodium fluorescein (SF) is a dye that is uptake by schwannomas, which makes it amenable for its use in the resection of difficult or recurrent cases.

Methods

We describe the case of a patient presenting with a recurrence of a vagus nerve schwannoma in the cervical region and the step-by-step technique for its complete microsurgical exeresis helped by the use of SF dye.

Results

We achieved a complete microsurgical exeresis, despite the presence of exuberant perilesional fibrosis, by exploiting the ability of SF to stain the schwannoma and nearby tissues. That happens due to altered vascular permeability, allowing us to better differentiate the lesion boundaries and reactive scar tissue under microscope visualization (YELLOW 560 nm filter).

Conclusion

Recurrent cervical schwannoma might represent a surgical challenge due to its relation to the nerve, main cervical vessels, and the scar tissue encompassing the lesion. Although SF can cross both blood-brain and blood-tumor barriers, the impregnation of neoplastic tissue is still greater than that of nonneoplastic peripheric tissues. Such behavior may facilitate a safer removal of this kind of lesion while respecting contiguous anatomical structures.

Median nerve schwannoma with a diagnostic delay of 8 years: a case report

Introduction

Schwannomas are benign tumors of the peripheral nerve sheath, and the median nerve is the most commonly involved nerve. These benign tumors of the peripheral nerve sheath are very rare; they are clinically and radiologically similar to most other benign swellings of the hand; thus, they are often misdiagnosed.

Case Presentation

A 41-year-old lady presented with an 8-year-long history of swelling over the distal forearm. The tumor measured 3.5×3.5×3.5 mm and was located over the flexor aspect of the distal part of her right forearm. Schwannoma was suspected from the clinical presentation and imaging, but the final diagnosis was established only after the surgery and histopathological analysis. At the follow-up after 1 year, the patient is doing well and her symptoms have not recurred.

Conclusion

Imaging characteristics of schwannoma can be misinterpreted as some other condition, making the preoperative diagnosis very difficult and important. Thus, clinicians should be aware of such swellings, especially those that have been unnoticed or misdiagnosed, and provide optimal diagnoses to confer good outcomes.

Rare Benign Tumors and Tumor-like Lesions of the Hand without Skin Damage-Clinical, Imagistic and Histopathological Diagnosis, Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

The broad spectrum of diagnoses and clinical features of hand tumors and the absence of pathognomonic signs often lead to an inaccurate or delayed diagnosis. However, only a few reports have comprehensively referenced the diagnosis and clinical features of hand tumors. This study intends to highlight the clinical, imaging and histological characteristics of uncommon hand tumors or tumor-like lesions.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we report a series of 80 patients diagnosed with rare hand tumors and tumor-like lesions without skin damage. Age, gender, tumor location, imaging examinations and clinical and laboratory findings were analyzed. The histopathological exam established the final diagnosis. Surgery was indicated and performed in all cases.

RESULTS

This study included: neurofibroma, glomus tumor, lipoma, schwannoma, epidermal inclusion cyst and idiopathic tenosynovitis with "rice bodies." We have described the clinical, imagistic and histopathological particularities of these tumors. Surgical management included the complete removal of tumors, with no recurrence recorded within two years and overall high patient satisfaction. The most common findings were lipomas and the rarest neurofibromas.

CONCLUSIONS

To optimize the care of hand tumors and reduce diagnostic and treatment errors, knowledge of hand tumor types and their clinical and laboratory characteristics is necessary for every surgeon.

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Intravenous Lobular Capillary Hemangioma in the Cephalic Vein

A 60-year-old man presented with focal swelling on the dorsal surface of the left wrist. The sonographic exam revealed the presence of a smoothly rounded hypoechoic mass, with internal blood flow in the lumen of the vein. The histopathological findings led to the diagnosis of intravenous lobular capillary hemangioma (LCH). Here, we reported an intravenous LCH arising from the cephalic vein on the dorsal surface of the left wrist hand and discussed the related ultrasonographic findings.

Clinical characteristics and management experience of schwannoma in extremities: Lessons learned from a 10-year retrospective study

Introduction

Schwannomas are the most common neoplastic lesions of the peripheral nerves when growing on the extremities, they usually have adverse effects on patients due to the exposed and functional nature of the region.

Methods

In the present single-center retrospective study, we included all patients with pathologically confirmed schwannoma located in extremities between 2011 and 2021 totaling 183 patients. Data on gender, age, duration history, clinical presentation, occurrence region, nerve affiliation, imaging data, modus operation, mass volume, immunohistochemistry, postoperative neurological function, and recurrence were collected.

Results

As in previous studies, patients were predominantly middle-aged with a mean age of 49.5, without gender preference and a male-to-female ratio of 1.2:1. Most patients are first seen for this disease, and only five of them are recurrent. The majority presented with an isolated (91.26%), asymptomatic (37.7%) mass, with tenderness (34.97%) being the second frequent complaint. 60% of lesions occurred in the upper extremity, more commonly on the left side (55.26%) than the right. The average duration of onset was 47.50 months. MRI is more sensitive for neurogenic tumors than ultrasound, as it owns 78.93% correct. In immunohistochemistry, the top three markers for positive labeling schwannoma are S-100 (98.95%), Ki67 (98.68%) and β-Catenin. 98.36% of patients underwent complete resection of the lesion, of which 14.44% required partial sacrifice of the nerve fibers. Thanks to the application of intraoperative peripheral nerve microscopic operation, only 6 patients showed symptoms of postoperative nerve injury, and 3 of them received second surgery. Intraoperative microscopic manipulation, preservation of the main nerve, and the need for reconstruction of the affected nerve fibers are some of the points worth noting.

Discussion

In summary, the possibility of schwannoma should not be overlooked in the identification of masses that occur in the upper extremities of the middle-aged population. Preoperative ultrasound and MR are useful for determining the nature of the mass, and S100, Ki67, and β-Catenin are sensitive to it. Surgical resection can achieve satisfying functional results and a low risk of nerve injury.

Ultrasound Examination Facilitated the Diagnosis of an Intercostal Schwannoma

Ultrasound imaging is known for its capability in scrutinizing superficial soft tissue disorders. We report a rare case of a 71-year-old male who presented with a history of rectal cancer with lymph node metastasis and had complete remission after surgery and chemotherapy. He had a palpable mass over the right anterior lower chest, which became gradually painful in the recent six months. Ultrasound facilitated the diagnosis of an intercostal schwannoma, which was also evident on magnetic resonance imaging and was confirmed by the histopathological study. Following the tumor excision, the patient had complete pain relief at the second-month follow-up. The case report highlighted the usefulness of ultrasound in clarification of the exact location of a chest wall tumor in relation to ribs, pleura, adjacent muscles, and intercostal neurovascular bundles as well as delineation of its echotexture and internal vascularity.

Schwannoma of the Upper Limb: Retrospective Study of a Rare Tumor with Uncommon Locations

Background: Although schwannoma (neurilemmoma) is the most common tumor of the peripheral nerve, its low incidence, slow growth and vague symptoms often lead to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. The aim of the study is to present a series with a large number of schwannomas in the upper limbs, some with very rare occurrence. Methods: We report 17 patients with a mean age of 58.5 years and upper limb schwannomas, located on the median, ulnar and radial nerves, but also on the posterior interosseous nerve and digital collateral nerves. The diagnosis was made by clinical examination and imaging tests, and in no case was a preoperative biopsy performed. Surgical treatment was established based on symptoms or aesthetic concerns. In all cases, a diagnosis of schwannoma was confirmed through histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations. Results: For all patients, a complete tumor enucleation was performed under a surgical microscope. No recurrence was recorded at 2 years after surgery. Patient satisfaction was good, with complete socio-professional integration in all cases. Conclusions: Although more frequently present on the main nerve trunks, schwannoma may be present on the collateral digital nerves in rare cases. A correct technique with complete tumor excision offers excellent postoperative outcomes and avoids recurrences.

An Assessment and Management of Plexiform Schwannoma of the Third Webspace in a Female: A Case Report

Schwannoma is a rare benign soft tissue tumor that appears like a neuroma based on its specific location and clinical features. We report a case of a plexiform schwannoma in a middle-aged woman who had a painful bump located in the third webspace on the dorsum of her right foot for the last four years. Initially, the swelling was thought to be Morton's neuroma based on location and clinical feature findings. The mass was resected and was sent for histopathological examination, revealing a plexiform schwannoma, most likely developing from the cutaneous nerves on the dorsum of the foot. She reported improvement in her symptoms after complete and careful excision without any neurological deficit. Investigation of any subcutaneous foot swelling should be coupled with a histopathological examination for comprehensive management.

The EFSUMB Guidelines and Recommendations for Musculoskeletal Ultrasound - Part I: Extraarticular Pathologies

The first part of the guidelines and recommendations for musculoskeletal ultrasound, produced under the auspices of the European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (EFSUMB), provides information about the use of musculoskeletal ultrasound for assessing extraarticular structures (muscles, tendons, entheses, ligaments, bones, bursae, fasciae, nerves, skin, subcutaneous tissues, and nails) and their pathologies. Clinical applications, practical points, limitations, and artifacts are described and discussed for every structure. After an extensive literature review, the recommendations have been developed according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine and GRADE criteria and the consensus level was established through a Delphi process. The document is intended to guide clinical users in their daily practice.

Benign Schwannoma of the Thumb; a diagnostic challenge

Benign Schwannomas are one of the less frequently encountered soft tissue tumours of the hand. We report an interesting case of an 80-year-old gentleman with a painful soft tissue swelling on the radial aspect of his thumb. Ultrasound revealed a well-defined lesion separate from bone and tendon, with mixed echogenicity and moderate internal vascularity. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a 15 × 10 × 23mm lesion with low signal on T1 and high signal on T2. Following surgical excision, histology confirmed benign schwannoma.

Multiple schwannomas of the facial nerve mimicking cervical lymphoma: a case report

BACKGROUND

In this report, we describe the first case in literature of a patient with multiple schwannomas of the marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve.

CASE PRESENTATION

A Caucasian patient presented with a sudden onset of left lower facial nerve palsy House-Brackmann score III for 1 month. Computed tomography imaging was performed to exclude a cerebral event and revealed multiple tumors within the left parotid gland. Duplex ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging scans delineated multiple, hypoechoic tumors, round in shape and well defined without a hilar structure along the left mandible. For histological verification, a left-side partial parotidectomy and extirpation of an intraparotideal node was performed with use of a nerve-integrity monitor. Histomorphological analysis of the resected tissue revealed a benign schwannoma. Facial nerve function remained unchanged since the operation. The size of the nonresected tumors is currently monitored regularly by ultrasonography. Fibromatosis has been excluded.

CONCLUSIONS

If multiple tumors occur in the parotid gland and the angle of the jaw, schwannomas need to be considered as a differential diagnosis. To plan the right diagnostic surgical intervention and prevent nerve damage, a thorough ultrasound examination is essential in preoperative diagnostic work-up for any suspicious lesion of the parotid gland and jaw region.

A Solitary Benign Schwannoma of the Medial Dorsal Cutaneous Nerve of the Foot Masquerading as a Ganglion Cyst

Schwannomas are rarely seen in the foot and ankle and mostly arise from the plantar aspect. Dorsal foot schwannomas are not commonly reported. We describe the case of a 25-year-old man who had a painful swelling on the dorsum of his right foot, which resembled a ganglion cyst on clinical examination and ultrasonography findings. Persistent symptoms prompted the need for an excisional biopsy, which revealed a benign schwannoma arising from the medial dorsal cutaneous nerve. Complete and careful excision relieved the symptoms without causing any distal neural deficit. Thus, schwannomas can mimic as a ganglion cyst. Excisional biopsy of such swellings, if symptomatic, helps in confirming the diagnosis, and provides a good functional outcome.

Cystic schwannoma of the distal forearm. Case presentation

Schwannomas are well-encapsulated, benign tumors arising from Schwann cell constituting the nerve sheaths. We report a case of a cystic conventional schwannoma, measuring 2.5×3 cm, located in the distal forearm of a 33-year-old female patient with no sign of neurofibromatosis type 2 or type 3. The mass was painless, but Tinel’s sign was positive. Ultrasonography showed a soft tissue cystic mass diagnosed as being synovial cyst in the left distal forearm. Surgical resection was performed without any complications. Histopathological examinations oriented the diagnosis to a schwannoma, but immunohistochemical stainings proved the tumor origin in Schwann cells and made the differential diagnosis with other pathologies, like neurofibroma, leiomyoma, epithelial cyst, synovial cyst, or ganglion cyst.

Nail Unit Schwannoma: An Important Consideration in the Differential Diagnosis of Soft Tissue Tumors Affecting the Nail Apparatus

Schwannoma is a tumor of schwann cell proliferation which presents as a solitary, soft, skin-colored dermal or subcutaneous papulo-nodule most commonly on the flexor part of extremities and head and neck areas. Here, we report a case of nail unit schwannoma, which is a rare tumor of the nail apparatus with only 4 other prior reports in the literature. This case illustrates the importance of including subungual schwannoma in the clinical differential diagnosis of subungual soft tissue tumors. We include a literature review which catalogs and summarizes the current knowledge regarding this unusual nail unit neoplasm.

Schwannoma of the Posterior Tibial Nerve

A 61-year-old woman was referred to physical therapy by a podiatrist who suspected a posterior tibialis degenerative tear. To further examine the irritable posterior tibial nerve, a musculoskeletal ultrasound examination was performed, showing a vascularized focal lesion suggestive of a nerve tumor. The patient was referred back to the referring podiatrist, who ordered magnetic resonance imaging, which confirmed the schwannoma of the posterior tibialis nerve. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2020;50(2):111. doi:10.2519/jospt.2020.9103.

Ultra-high-frequency Ultrasound to Assess Nerve Fascicles in Median Nerve Traumatic Neuroma

A traumatic neuroma is a major cause of persistent neuropathic pain. Diagnostic imaging tools are critical to the success of surgical treatment. Ultra-high-frequency ultrasound is a novel technology that can generate frequencies up to 70 MHz, assessing structures up to 30 μm. We report a unique case of intraoperative use of ultra-high-frequency ultrasound to provide detailed imaging of nerve fascicles, facilitating surgical excision of the mass.

Atypical schwannoma of the median nerve. A case report

Schwannomas of the hand are very rare tumors and represent less than 3% of all soft tissue tumors in the hand. These tumors share clinical, epidemiological and imaging characteristics with the other soft tissue and peripheral nerve tumors; thus, it can be difficult to make a preoperative diagnosis. Here we report the case of a 48-year-old woman who presented with a schwannoma arising from the palmar branch of the median nerve. The tumor measured 54 × 41 x 52 mm and was located in the thenar eminence. The first hypothesis was a vascular tumor. After surgery and histological analysis, the final diagnosis of an atypical schwannoma was established. The presence of shared immunohistochemical characteristics with cellular histiocytoma and myoepithelial tumors forced us to adopt an aggressive follow-up protocol. As of the last follow-up at 9 years, the patient had good clinical outcomes and no recurrence. This case highlights the difficulties encountered in clinical practice to diagnose such tumors.

Sonographic Characteristics of Apocrine Nodular Hidradenoma of the Skin

Nodular hidradenomas are benign sweat gland-derived tumors that can produce clinical and dermatoscopic misdiagnoses. Histologically, these tumors can be classified into eccrine and apocrine subtypes. We present the sonographic characteristics of 6 cases of apocrine nodular hidradenomas, which, to our knowledge, is so far the largest series reported. A detailed sonographic analysis included layers, body location, shape, diameters, echostructure patterns, and vascularity. Two sonographic signs not previously reported in these or other common dermatologic lesions were detected: "snow falling" and "fluid-fluid level." The sonographic characteristics of apocrine nodular hidradenomas can support their earlier and more precise diagnosis.