A rare case of extrauterine schwannoma-like leiomyoma after transvaginal hysterectomy: laparoscopic management

BACKGROUND: Schwannomas (neurilemomas) are encapsulated tumours made entirely of benign neoplastic Schwann cells. They are the most common tumour of peripheral nerves, but very uncommon in gynaecologic practice. OBJECTIVES: The objective is to demonstrate unusual histology mimicking schwannoma in a case of leiomyoma in a woman who had a history of vaginal hysterectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We report a case of a 50-year-old hysterectomised patient who was referred with complaints of dull pain in the left inguinal region of the abdominal cavity during the last 3 months. The narrated surgical video article demonstrates the dissection of the left parametrium, tumour removal, colpotomy, specimen extraction, and vaginal laparoscopic suturing. Pre-operative CT-scan images of the pelvis with retroperitoneal tumour and macroscopic and histological views of the schwannoma are also provided. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Full recovery of the patient after laparoscopic removal of the tumour. RESULTS: As a result of the surgical treatment, the patient recovered fully. CONCLUSIONS: Schwannoma-like leiomyomas are rare tumours. They can be extra peritoneally located, without any connection to the uterus and adnexa. They are difficult to diagnose before surgery. The laparoscopic approach is the best option for the treatment of such rare extra organic tumours.