Vagal schwannoma involving esophagus

Abstract

A rare case of vagal schwannoma (neurilemoma) with involvement of the distal esophagus is presented. Chronic progressive dysphagia was the only complaint related to the schwannoma. Barium swallow showed narrowing of the distal esophagus. The tumor was embedded in the wall of the esophagus. After biopsy and diagnosis of benign schwannoma, it was dissected from the esophageal muscle and mucosa. Diagnosis of benign schwannoma should be made before excision of the lesion to avoid an unnecessary esophagectomy.