Giant schwannoma of the cauda equina without neurological deficits -- case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Schwannomas and ependymomas are the most frequent tumours of the filum terminale. Giant schwannomas, however, are very rare in this location with less than 30 cases reported in the literature, most of them presenting with preoperative neurological deficits. We present the case of a giant schwannoma in a 75-year-old lady extending from the level of lower D12 to upper L3 vertebra with low-back pain as the only symptom. Microsurgical removal of the tumour was accomplished via an L1-L2 laminotomy without permanent neurological deficits. Giant schwannoma of the cauda equina is a rare tumour with variable symptoms. Early diagnosis is crucial to obtain good postoperative results. Total removal without additional neurological deficits can be achieved by appropriate microsurgical techniques.