An unusual single paraglottic space neurofibroma: A case report and literature review

Int J Surg Case Rep. 2022 Jul:96:107286. doi: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2022.107286. Epub 2022 Jun 7.

Abstract

Background: Neurofibromas are benign peripheral nerve sheath tumours, formed by a wide variety of different kinds of cells and matrixes. Airway neurofibromas are extremely rare and minimal cases have been described in the literature. Endoscopic surgical removal is considered challenging due to the infiltrating character of the lesion.

Case presentation: We describe the clinical case of a gentleman, with a left paraglottic space neurofibroma, who presented with dyspnoea and voice changes. He had his neurofibroma removed endoscopically under general anaesthesia.

Methods: The case was analysed and discussed on this gentleman's presentation. However, the diagnosis was set only after the histology report was released. A literature review was performed to explore presentation and management.

Conclusion: Neurofibromas have extremely low prevalence in the airway. The size of the benign tumour in our case was impressive and the recovery of the gentleman post-operatively was rapid.

Keywords: Nerve sheath tumours; Paraglottic neurofibroma; Paraglottic schwannoma.