Schwannoma of posterior pharyngeal wall: An unusual tumor in an unusual location!

Abstract

Schwannomas of head and neck are classically located in the parapharyngeal space; however, it is rarely located on the posterior pharyngeal wall. Posterior pharyngeal wall schwannomas are thought to originate from the sympathetic nerve plexus. Clinically, this may present as an asymptomatic mass with a constellation of symptoms ranging from globus sensation, dysphagia, to even airway compromise. We present a rare case of posterior wall schwannoma. It concerns a young woman with a mass in the posterior wall of the pharynx causing globus sensation.