PMC5645490_01
Axial, coronal and sagittal computed tomography scans revealing a large mass in the masticator space with significant displacement of the oropharyngeal space.
gr1.jpg
PMC5645490_01_gr1.jpg
fig0005
The computed tomogram (Fig. 1) reported a well defined, homogenous 62 x 55 mm low density collection in the left masticator space extending into the left parapharyngeal space with displacement of the oropharyngeal space.
Axial, coronal and sagittal magnetic resonance imaging demonstrating a large homogenous encapsulated mass in the left parapharyngeal space extending up to the base of skull superiorly. (Red arrow indicating deformity of left pterygoid plate).
gr2.jpg
PMC5645490_01_gr2.jpg
fig0010
The MRI (Fig. 2) also showed that there was deformity of the pterygoid plates indicating that the lesion was slow growing.
(a) Scanning low power view, of HE stained sections from pharyngeal mass. Sections show well defined, cystic spindle cell tumour with features of schwannoma. (b) Low power view of HE stained section, showing spindle cell proliferation. (c) Medium power magnification of HE stained sections showing spindle cell proliferation with scattered hyperchromatic cells nuclei, consistent with ancient change in schwannoma. (d): High power view of HE stained section, highlighting hyperchromatic spindle cells with ancient change.
gr3.jpg
PMC5645490_01_gr3.jpg
fig0015
The morphological features were in keeping with a schwannoma with ancient/degenerative changes (Fig. 3).