Schwannoma of the lower limb: a case report

Schwannoma is a benign tumor of the peripheral nerve sheath and is a unique clinical entity when localized to a lower limb. Growing as a painless nodule, it might be misdiagnosed by many medical professionals as another benign soft tissue skin condition, such as lipoma, myxoma, or ganglion cyst. Definitive diagnosis of peripheral schwannoma is made by biopsy and histopathologic evaluation, followed by surgical excision, which is the definitive treatment of the tumor. Classic symptoms of schwannoma of the lower limb are peripheral neuropathy (tingling, burning sensations) and motor impairment (weakness, paralysis of the affected limb). MRI imaging and biopsy are the most useful diagnostic methods for peripheral schwannoma, followed by surgical excision, which is the treatment of choice. Postoperative complications, if present, are minimal and rare. Because of the slow-growing nature of the tumor and the complexity of the lower limb's nervous and structural network, it is often asymptomatic and is challenging to diagnose at a primary stage. That is why we want to spread awareness and draw the reader's attention to this rare case of a patient with schwannoma on the left lower limb.