Schwannoma located in the palate: clinical case and literature review

Abstract

Schwannoma is a benign tumor that originates from the presence of Schwann cells of the peripheral nerves. They are usually asymptomatic, do not recur, and malignant transformation is rare. The preoperative diagnosis is often difficult, and although computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are very helpful, in the majority of cases, the diagnosis can only be made during surgery and by histological study. The immunohistochemistry reveals that the Schwannoma cells test positive for S-100 protein. We describe a clinical case of Schwannoma located in the palate of a 15-year-old patient. It is important to highlight that the Schwannoma is usually found in the head and neck, and rarely in the oral cavity. When it does occur in this area, it is more likely to be found in the tongue. Other locations in the oral cavity include: the floor of the mouth, palate, gingiva, vestibular mucosa, lips and mental nerve area, listed from most common to least common. There has been no sign of recurrence two years after surgery.