Retroperitoneal Ancient Schwannoma / 대한비뇨기과학회지

ABSTRACT

The term 'ancient' schwannoma was proposed for a group of neural tumors showing degenerative changes and marked nuclear atypia. The findings from abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography, in a patient with a retroperitoneal ancient schwannoma, are presented, and the histological features of this unusual type of tumor are reviewed. The presence of a large, well-delineated complex cystic mass in the deep soft tissues should raise the possibility of an ancient schwannoma. The treatment of choice for an ancient schwannoma is complete excision. It is important to recognize these tumors as benign, with excellent prognosis, so as to avoid unnecessary radical surgery. A recurrence, or persistence, seems to be associated with incomplete resection, which occurred in 10% of the reported cases.