Extramedullary Intradural Spinal Schwannoma: A Case Report and Successful Treatment Approach

Abstract

Studies have shown that extramedullary intradural tumors (EIDTs) can develop from various tissues and structures surrounding the spinal cord, including nerve roots, meninges, or vertebral bodies. Nerve sheath tumors account for approximately 30% of EIDTs in adult, while meningeal tumors account for approximately 25%. The prevailing types of tumors are Schwannomas, accounting for 29% of cases, and gliomas at 22%. We present our 46-year-old female who visited the clinic reporting a persistent upper back pain in the thoracic region for one year. The MRI revealed an EIDT on the right side of the spinal canal at the T6-T7 level which was consistent with a possible diagnosis of schwannoma. This case report highlights the diagnosis, management, and outcome of a patient with schwannoma. Following removal of the extradural portion of the mass, the dura defect was closed by duraplasty. Fortunately, there was no observed loss of function after surgery. This favorable result underscores the critical role of timely and precise diagnosis, meticulous preoperative assessment, and appropriate surgical methods in managing such tumors. This case report on Schwannomas can contribute to our understanding of the disease and help in developing better treatment and management strategies compared to the literature which is still unclear.