Surgical Management of Primary Inner Ear Schwannoma: A Rare Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

We are reporting a rare case of primary inner ear schwannomas (PIES) with an interesting clinical presentation, its diagnostic challenge, surgical management, and follow-up. A case report and review of the literature concerning PIES is presented. Key role of otolaryngologist is symptomatic management and hearing preservation or rehabilitation. This was achieved in the present case by complete resolution of her symptoms and hearing rehabilitation with cochlear implantation. Early diagnosis and management of PIES carry a good prognosis. There are no guidelines for the management of this kind of tumor due to its rarity. This case mimicking labyrinthitis, however, raised suspicion of PIES on initial imaging. The patient underwent serial imaging which revealed similar findings which were confirmed intraoperatively on tumor identification and complete excision leading to successful diagnosis at an early stage.