The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, Vol 52, 1334-1336, Copyright © 1991 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons
Vagal schwannoma involving esophagus
R Vaghei and NI Yost
Thoracic Vascular Section, VA Medical Center, Martinsburg, WV 25401.
A rare case of vagal schwannoma (neurilemoma) with involvement of the
distal esophagus is presented. Chronic progressive dysphagia was the only
complaint related to the schwannoma. Barium swallow showed narrowing of the
distal esophagus. The tumor was embedded in the wall of the esophagus.
After biopsy and diagnosis of benign schwannoma, it was dissected from the
esophageal muscle and mucosa. Diagnosis of benign schwannoma should be made
before excision of the lesion to avoid an unnecessary esophagectomy.