Hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy for dumbbell-shaped hypoglossal schwannomas: Two cases of long-term follow-up and a review of the literature

Abstract

Cases of hypoglossal schwannoma are extremely rare. Historically, microsurgical resection has been the standard treatment, but it may not always be feasible; thus, it is crucial to investigate alternative treatments. We herein present the cases of two patients, both of whom presented with tongue deviation and hemiatrophy, accompanied by headaches. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a dumbbell-shaped tumor originating from the hypoglossal nerve that was adjacent to the cranial base in each patient. Hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy was used to treat the tumors, with a total dose of 30 Gy in 3-Gy fractions delivered to the planning target volume. Several months later, the tumors had significantly decreased in size and the symptoms of the two patients had gradually improved.