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DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1237714
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York
Isolated Lympho-histiocytic Inflammation of the Gasserian Ganglion Mimicking Trigeminal Schwannoma
Publication History
Publication Date:
02 December 2009 (online)
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Abstract
We present an unusual case of a patient with trigeminal pain and hypesthesia suggesting trigeminal schwannoma, where histology demonstrated an inflammatory lesion of the Gasserian ganglion.
Clinical presentation: Patient history and imaging were typical for a trigeminal schwannoma with a dumbbell growth in the middle and posterior fossa. Surgery was performed and resection of a firm mass intermingled with fascicles originating from the ganglion and the mandibular branch was carried out via a subtemporal approach. Histological diagnosis revealed a non-caseating, vaguely granulomatous lymphocyte- and histiocyte-rich inflammation.
Conclusion: Inflammatory lesions of the Gasserian ganglion are rare but may mimic tumors. Intraoperative biopsies should be taken prior to complete resection to limit neurological deterioration.
Key words
lympho-histiocytosis - trigeminal - schwannoma - neurosarcoidosis
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Correspondence
Prof. Dr. V. Tronnier
Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Neurosurgery
Ratzeburger Allee 160
23538 Luebeck
Germany
Phone: 0451-500-2076
Fax: 0451-500-6191
Email: volker.tronnier@neurochirurgie.uni-luebeck.de