Cellular schwannoma of the mandible: A case report

Abstract

Schwannomas are slow-growing, benign neoplasms derived from the sheath cells that encompass myelinated nerve fibers. They may be encapsulated and are most frequently located in the head and neck.1-4 Cellular schwannoma differs from classic schwannoma by virtue of its increased cellularity, nuclear pleomorphism and hyperchromatism, lack of Verocay bodies, and frequent higher mitotic activity.2,5-7 The patients are most often middle aged. Most commonly, the tumor has a predilection for the paravertebral region of the retroperitoneum, the pelvis, the mediastinum, the head and neck, and the extremities. It often presents as a painless mass. Despite its similarities with malignancies on microscopic grounds, few have recurred, and none of the cases in the literature have metastasized.2,6,7