Adrenal Schwannoma Treated with Open Adrenalectomy: a Case Report

Abstract

Adrenal schwannomas are very rare tumors accounting for only 0.2% of the adrenal tumors. These are very difficult to diagnose preoperatively and usually present as incidental non-secreting adrenal masses in asymptomatic patients or in patients with non-specific complaints. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are required to aid the diagnosis, but adrenal schwannomas cannot be distinguishably confirmed on the basis of imaging alone. Histopathological examination (HPE) is essential for accurate diagnosis. We report a rare case of a right adrenal schwannoma in a 68-year-old man. The clinical evaluation was unremarkable and the radiological examination revealed a suprarenal mass lesion on ultrasonography (USG). CT revealed a right adrenal mass which was purported to be likely malignant. Right adrenalectomy was performed by the open approach along with excision of the surrounding enlarged lymph nodes. The postoperative course was uneventful. HPE established the adrenal mass to be a schwannoma, a benign tumor arising from Schwann cells, an exceedingly unusual occurrence in the adrenal glands. A non-secreting adrenal mass can be easily misjudged and the exact diagnosis of the lesion cannot be made sure of without both radiologic and pathologic confirmation. Unilateral adrenal primary or metastatic lesions need pathological confirmation as it can dramatically affect prognosis. Unusual tumors of the adrenal gland like schwannomas may be found incidentally or otherwise and will generate difficulties in establishing the right management. Complete excision is the treatment of choice whenever feasible and will also clarify pathology.