A Case Report of Large Schwannoma Arising in Sciatic Nerve

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Schwannoma is one of common neoplasm in the central and peripheral nervous systems. However, schwannoma of sciatic nerve is rare, especially large schwannoma arising in sciatic nerve is extremely rare. This is a report of our experience with large schwannoma arising in sciatic nerve with minimal neurologic symptoms. METHODS: A 65-year-old man presented with palpable mass in middle portion of posterior thigh. No definitive neurologic deficits were detected on physical examinations. CT and sonography showed well-defined mass with large dimension. The mass was excised and confirmed histologically as a schwannoma. In postoperative period, NCS and EMG were followed. RESULTS: The patient complained of difficulty in dorsiflexion of ipsilateral ankle joint postoperatively. NCS and EMG obtained immediately and showed sciatic neuropathy. After 2 months postoperatively, NCS and EMG were followed and abnormal findings of previous NCS and EMG were not found. Dorsiflexion of ankle joint was improved to normal range of motion. CONCLUSION: We report a rare case of large schwannoma arising in sciatic nerve with no definitive neurologic symptoms.