International journal of research in medical sciences’s scientific contributions

Schwannomas are uncommon and benign neurogenic tumors that originate from the nerve sheath of the myelinated nerves. It can be found in any peripheral, cranial or autonomic nerves which contain Schwann cells. It is also called neuroma, nerve sheath tumor and neurilemmoma. Schwannomas in the head and neck region often present as painless swelling. The growth of schwannoma of the pinna causes an aesthetic alteration of the pinna. Schwannoma is a rare tumor of the pinna. The diagnosis of schwannoma is confirmed by histopathological study and immunohistochemistry. Histopathologically, it shows encapsulated, well-circumscribed lesions composed of different cellular patterns and arrangements. Histologically, the hallmark of schwannomas is the pattern of alternating Antoni A and Antoni B areas. The treatment of choice for schwannoma of the pinna is complete surgical excision. Recurrence following complete excision of the schwannoma is rare. Because of their rarity, these tumors are often not included in the differential diagnosis of the mass on the pinna. Preoperative suspicion and awareness are very important for schwannoma of the pinna to avoid delayed diagnosis and treatment. There is not much literature on the schwannoma of the pinna, indicating that this clinical entity is neglected. The objective of this article was to provide a comprehensive review of the schwannoma of the pinna including its epidemiology, etiopathology, clinical presentations, diagnosis and treatment.