Schwannoma Originating From the Lingual Nerve Radiologically Mimicking a Submandibular Gland Tumor

Abstract

Schwannoma, also known as neurilemmoma, is a slowly growing benign neurogenic tumor, originating from the Schwann cells of the nerve sheath. Schwannoma can arise from various nerves such as cranial nerves, spinal nerves, autonomic nerves, and is most common in the head and neck area. However, Schwannoma originating from the lingual nerve is very rare and the clinical findings are non-specific. Therefore, when it occurs in the submandibular space, it is difficult to differentiate them from other tumors, making it difficult to accurately diagnose before surgery. Therefore, by reporting a case of Schwannoma originating from the lingual nerve that was misdiagnosed for a submandibular gland tumor, we intend to understand the characteristics and radiological findings of Schwannoma originating from the lingual nerve. The tumor was successfully treated without complications by using the da Vinci robotic surgical system, which provides a wide field of view and wrist joint structure.