Neurilemmomas are slow growing, benign neoplasms of neural crest Schwann cell origin. They arise from any peripheral, spinal or cranial nerve except the olfactory and optic. Presentation is usually asymptomatic but focal neurological signs and symptoms may be associated with nerve compression. With approximately one third of all documented cases presenting in the head and neck region, we report a case of a submandibular neurilemmoma misdiagnosed pre-operatively. The diagnostic difficulties are discussed and the current literature reviewed. This case highlights the importance of inclusion of nerve sheath tumours in differential diagnoses of soft tissue lesions in the head and neck.

Facial nerve neuromas occur throughout the course of the facial nerve and its branches, however lesions occurring on the chorda tympani branch are exceptionally rare. We present a case where the diagnosis was made intra-operatively; the patient was pre-operatively thought to have had a cholesteatoma. Total resection is the treatment of choice for these cases. Early diagnosis, aided by high resolution computed tomography (CT) scanning, will facilitate complete excision without damage to the facial nerve itself or the ossicular chain. The slow growing nature of the neuroma is likely to allow compensatory mechanisms to occur without the patient experiencing dysgeusia. As with any rarity the diagnosis can only be made with a high index of suspicion.

Nasal gliomas are rare embryologic development defects that commonly present shortly after birth. Very few cases have ever been reported in adults. Of those presenting in adult life, most were casual findings in patients with no symptoms. Rare localizations have been described in the nasopharynx, soft palate, orbital cave and scalp. We present an unusual case of a 56-year-old man who initially presented with meningoencephalitis and was found to have nasal glioma in the sphenoid sinus. Having discussed their embryology and histology, we conclude that MRI scanning is the preferred method of investigation. However, radiological evaluation preoperatively should not lead to any sense of security if no bony defect (and thus, the possibility of intracranial extension) is demonstrated. Extirpation via a functional surgical approach is the treatment of choice to prevent deformities in the facial bones. This can range from direct incision over the gliomata to removal transnasally by endoscopy or using a lateral rhinotomy approach depending on the location, size and involvement of the glioma.

The real world effectiveness and adverse event profile of intranasal steroid sprays is similar in clinical practice to that seen in trials. The number needed to treat to obtain symptomatic benefit is 1.26 and to reduce all symptoms is 4. The number needed to harm is 11. Intranasal steroids are an effective and safe first line treatment for rhinitis.

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