This page was last updated: August 18, 2007
Cervical Neurilemmoma (Schwannoma)
Otolaryngology Houston
Bechara Y. Ghorayeb, MD
8830 Long Point, Suite 806
Houston, Texas 77055
For appointments, call 713 464 2614
Slowly growing right lateral neck mass
This axial image shows the mass arising from a cervical nerve and partially destroying the cervical vertebra.
Right cervical neurilemmoma on coronal MRI image.
Sagittal MRI image of the neurilemmoma.
Neurogenic tumours of the head and neck are uncommon tumours that can arise from cranial, peripheral or autonomic nerves. The vast majority are benign and include neurofibromas and schwannomas. The malignant group comprises neurogenic sarcomas, malignant schwannomas, neuroeptheliomas and malignant melanomas.
Most tumours originating from the glossopharyngeal, vagus, accessory and hypoglossal nerves and sympathetic chain are located in the medial aspect of the neck. Laterally, they arise from the cutaneous or muscular branches of the cervical plexus or from the brachial plexus.
The commonest presentation is a slow growing mass. Upon palpation, they are slightly mobile except along the long axis of the nerve. Neurological symptoms are not usually seen. The diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion.
For more information, Click on the link below:
Simon C. R. Dennis & Ranjit K. Mal: Supraclavicular Lump: Think Brachial Plexus Neurogenic Tumour: The Internet Journal of Otorhinolaryngology. 2005; Volume 4, Number 1.
