Tenth Cranial Nerve Schwannoma

Tenth Cranial Nerve Schwannoma

Article
Ear, Nose, & Throat (ENT)
Brain & Nerve
+3
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBAOct 27, 2020

The topic Tenth Cranial Nerve Schwannoma you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Vagus Nerve Schwannoma.

Quick Summary:

  • Schwannomas are mostly benign tumors that arise from the Schwann cells around the nerves; these tumors are nerve sheath tumors. Schwannomas involving the central nervous system (CNS) are classified as grade I tumors of the cranial and paraspinal nerves, according to the World Health Organization (WHO)
  • WHO grade I brain tumors are the most benign of the brain tumors that are slow-growing and are not known to infiltrate into surrounding tissues. They offer a very high chance for surgery to be curative, and thus, have the best prognosis amongst all brain tumors; long-term survivals are usually noted
  • A majority of schwannomas involve the cranial nerves, particularly cranial nerve VIII (causing vestibular schwannomas). Cranial nerves are 12 pairs of sensory and/or motor nerves having specific functions that connect parts of the head and neck region to the brain. Ten of these pairs originate from the brainstem; two pairs originate from the cerebrum
  • Vagus Nerve Schwannoma is a very rare form of schwannoma that involves the cranial nerve X (CN X), or the vagus nerve, which is the longest of the cranial nerves. This highly complex nerve bundle serves both sensory and motor function; it arises from the medullary brain region and travels via the neck and chest, right up to the abdomen. In the head, the vagus nerve lies in close proximity to the glossopharyngeal nerve and accessory nerve (cranial nerves IX and XI respectively)
  • The ninth cranial nerve controls many skeletal muscles and is responsible for sweating, speech, gag reflex, vomiting, food movement from the throat to the stomach, and heart rate. It also communicates sensory information from the tongue, throat, ear canal, and from certain organs of the chest and abdominal region to the brain
  • Currently, no causative factors have been identified for Vagus Nerve Schwannoma, although certain genetic, environmental, and occupational factors have been implicated in schwannoma development. It is reported that in a majority, the tumor is not seen in the presence of neurofibromatosis (NF), which is a rare genetic disorder
  • Vagus Nerve Schwannomas may cause hoarse voice, headaches, and vocal cord paralysis. In some cases, the involvement of multiple cranial nerves is noted. Some individuals may also experience irritation of throat, dry cough, feeling of mass in the throat region, and decreased vision. In rare cases, the presence of malignant schwannomas may worsen the symptoms and outcomes
  • Occasionally, the healthcare provider may undertake a ‘wait and watch’ approach for small-sized and slow-growing tumors. In many cases, a complete excision by surgery can be curative for benign tumors. The prognosis of Vagus Nerve Schwannoma is typically good with appropriate management and follow-up care

Please find comprehensive information on Vagus Nerve Schwannoma regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

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Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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