Nonvestibular Schwannomas of the Head and Neck

Schwannomas are benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors, of which almost half occur in the head and neck. Schwannomas may arise from any cranial, autonomic, or peripheral nerve. It is crucial to recognize the imaging features suggestive of schwannoma because the management decisions are unique due to the generally benign nature of this disease. While most nonvestibular schwannomas will be asymptomatic until they are large, tumors within or adjacent to bony structures are often associated with neurologic symptoms. This article provides a multimodality imaging review of the varied appearance of nonvestibular schwannomas in the head and neck as well as correlative discussion of the clinical presentation and management. Learning Objective: To describe the imaging appearance, critical clinical features, and management implications of nonvestibular schwannomas of the head and neck.