CT Features of an unusual calcified schwannoma of the superior laryngeal nerve

Abstract

We report the CT findings in a patient with a lateral neck mass histologically diagnosed as a laryngeal schwannoma but presenting some uncommon CT features. CT showed unusual calcified components, very rarely observed and potentially misleading for diagnosis. However, this imaging feature can be found in ancient schwannomas. Our case is, therefore, a very rare one and reviews the main differential diagnoses.

Fig 1.

Contrast-enhanced CT of the neck shows a 3-cm heterogeneous tumor located between the submandibular gland and the carotid space, with a single large calcification. Note the mass effect on the left greater cornua of the hyoid bone, typical of a slow-growing benign tumor. A, Axial view. B, Sagittal view.