Refractory intercostal neuralgia due to intercostal schwannoma: A case report

ABSTRACT

Intercostal neuralgia is neuropathic pain that develops in the thorax and abdomen. It usually occurs as a result of injury or inflammation associated with the intercostal nerve triggered by trauma, surgery, or herpes zoster. Primary intercostal neuroma is a rare cause of intercostal neuralgia. A 69-year-old male patient without a history of thoracic trauma or surgery underwent repeated testing and intermittent treatment for refractory pain in the right chest and abdomen for several years. However, the treatment had limited effect. Abdominal computed tomography performed to diagnose recent pain aggravation revealed schwannoma of the 11th intercostal nerve. The patient's pain was relieved following surgical excision of the tumor.