Schwannoma of vagus nerve masquerading as a parotid tumour

Abstract

A post-auricular swelling is the most common presentation of a parotid tumour, the majority of which are benign neoplasms like pleomorphic adenoma. This case report discusses a post-styloid parapharyngeal space tumour presenting as a post-auricular mass which, on initial clinical and cytological examination, was diagnosed as pleomorphic adenoma. A cross-sectional radiological examination revealed the true location of the mass, which was histopathologically confirmed to be a vagal schwannoma. A radiological differential diagnosis is also discussed.