Dumbbell Glossopharyngeal Schwannoma at Jugular Foramen with Intrapetrosal Extension

Schwannomas arising from the cranial nerves of the jugular foramen are rare, only 50 cases including 15 glossopharyngeal schwannomas have been reported. They may be confused with the far more common acoustic schwannoma because of the presenting symptom of hearing loss. With the symptoms and signs of the lower cranial nerve involvement, the characteristic radiographic findings of enlarged jugular foramen and normal internal acoustic meatus can make the diagnosis. The authors review the literature and present a unique case of glossopharyngeal schwannoma which had intra-and extracranial growth with intrapetrosal extension.