Imaging of carotid canal sympathetic plexus schwannoma

Abstract

One case report of a schwannoma involving the sympathetic plexus in the carotid canal has been reported previously. This article presents 2 additional cases of this rare entity with associated clinical and unique radiographic findings. All patients presented with diplopia among other symptoms, and they had enhancing masses that smoothly expanded the carotid canal on cross-sectional imaging. Comparison with the index case and differential diagnosis of more common pathologies in this area are discussed.