Lumbar plexus schwannoma causing recurrent syncope

Abstract

Retroperitoneal schwannomas are rare and present non-specifically. They usually manifest secondary to their compressive effects on adjacent structures. We describe a patient who presented with recurrent syncope resulting from a large retroperitoneal schwannoma stretching the inferior vena cava and compromising venous return. We also discuss the salient aspects of preoperative investigations leading to definitive diagnosis and surgery. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.