Giant Invasive Schwannoma
- Schwannomas are tumors arising from the nerve sheath predominantly during the 4th decade of life.
- Giant invasive schwannomas are defined as lesions that "wear away" the vertebral bodies then extend into myofascial planes.
- These tumors gradually increase in size with diagnosis occurring within 2 years of onset of tumor.
- On MRI, these tumors can be seen extending laterally on one side and pushing the spinal cord contralaterally.
- Total excision of the tumor is curative but is usually not possible due to extensive invasion of the nerve roots. Therefore, multiple surgeries are required to fully remove the tumor.
