Case Report
Evaluation of Perinephric, Retroperitoneal Schwannomas: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Abstract
Schwannomas are tumors arising from the nerve sheath. Because of their infrequent occurrence, nonspecific symptoms, and lack of distinguishing radiologic features, schwannomas are most often diagnosed histologically after surgical excision. We report herein a case of a perinephric, retroperitoneal schwannoma which, after evaluation by computed tomography, magnetic resonance, and angiography, appeared to be a renal cell carcinoma arising from the left kidney. The diagnosis of benign retroperitoneal schwannoma was made by histologic examination and immunohistochemical staining of the excised mass. A practical algorithm for perinephric, retroperitoneal schwannomas is proposed.
Key Points
* Schwannomas are rare tumors that are difficult to diagnose preoperatively.
* Evaluation of perinephric, retroperitoneal masses should preferably include magnetic resonance imaging rather than computed tomography.
* Core biopsies, but not needle biopsies, may assist in the preoperative diagnosis.
* Complete surgical excision is indicated and recurrence is rare.
* Histologic and immunohistologic staining should be used to confirm the diagnosis.
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