Epidemiology
A benign tumor of the nerve sheath, common in adults. Tingling, electric-like pain, or tenderness when tapping the mass point to a relationship with a nerve and help plan a careful resection.
Basic features
It may cause electric-shock-like pain, tingling, or a Tinel's sign (a tingling sensation when tapping over the mass). When there are several schwannomas, a specialist assessment is advisable to rule out schwannomatosis (including the NF2-related form), because it changes follow-up and may involve genetic testing.
Usual treatment
Observation if small and causing few symptoms. Microsurgical resection when there is pain, growth, or a neurological deficit.
Outcomes and prognosis
Good outlook: recurrence after complete removal is rare, and malignant transformation is exceptional. The goal is to relieve symptoms while preserving the nerve's function.