Melanotic schwannoma: an 11-year case series

Abstract

Melanotic or melanocytic schwannoma is a rare tumour usually involving spinal nerve roots but can also present at other anatomical locations. Although there are less than 200 cases reported, melanotic schwannomas can have distinctive imaging features but there is limited recent literature on its often characteristic radiological appearances. Recent publication of the largest case series thus far has suggested melanotic schwannoma to be a separate entity to other schwannomata and that its reclassification to a malignant lesion be under consideration. We present a case series over an 11-year period to highlight salient imaging features with reference to the current concerns regarding its malignant potential.

Keywords: Carney complex; Malignant potential; Melanin; Melanotic schwannoma; Peripheral nerve sheath tumour; Psammomatous melanotic schwannoma; Sarcoma; Schwannoma.