Hypoglossal Schwannoma: A Rare Case Report

Hypoglossal schwannomas are rare cranial base neoplasm arising from schwann cells of the XIIth cranial nerve. We report a case of 45 year old lady with history of headache for 2 years and difficulty in swallowing for 1 year. On evaluation, she was found to have left hypoglossal paresis, atrophy of tongue muscles on left side and a smooth oropharyngeal bulge on left side. Imaging showed a well-defined hypoattenuating mass in the left parapharyngeal region with widening of hypoglossal canal and displacement of carotid artery anteriorly. The tumour was excised into and was found to be arising from the left hypoglossal nerve. The histopathological report confirmed the diagnosis of hypoglossal schwannoma.