Obstructive supraglottic schwannoma: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Objective: At the conclusion of the current presentation, the participants should be able to describe the etiology, presentation, histopathologic identification, and treatment options for schwannoma of the larynx.

Objectives: Nerve sheath tumors rarely occur within the larynx. The goal of the current report is to acquaint the clinician with the presentation and treatment options for this disease.

Study design: Retrospective case report and review of the literature.

Methods: We report one case of schwannoma of the supraglottic larynx at the Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Medical Branch (Galveston, TX). In addition, we review English-language publications regarding laryngeal nerve sheath tumors.

Results: Laryngeal nerve sheath tumors have an insidious course, commonly involve the supraglottic larynx, and can lead to upper airway obstruction. Cure is achieved by complete surgical excision.

Conclusions: Median thyrotomy has proven to be safe and successful in the treatment of supraglottic schwannoma.