Pigmented Melanotic Schwannoma of the Neck: Report of 2 Cases and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Background: Melanotic schwannoma is a rare tumor with indeterminate biologic behavior and varying treatment recommendations. Methods: We report 2 cases of pigmented melanotic schwannoma of the head and neck and perform literature review. The pathologic and immunohistochemical characteristics of melanotic schwannoma are reviewed. Results: Two cases of melanotic schwannoma are presented. Both cases underwent surgical resection with one patient receiving adjuvant radiation therapy. Conclusions: Melanotic schwannoma is a rare nerve sheath tumor that is frequently mistaken for malignant melanoma. We describe 2 cases of pigmented melanotic schwannoma of the head and neck with different presentations and review the histopathological and immunohistochemical features.