Retroperitoneal Ancient Schwannoma

Schwannomas are benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors made up of Schwann cells. Ancient schwannoma is an uncommon subtype of schwannomas exhibiting areas of cystic cavitation, calcification and hyalinization. The “ancient” term refers to tumors that are long standing and show degenerative changes and diffuse hypocellular areas. This case highlights that the possibility of ancient schwannoma should be considered in patients presenting with a retroperitoneal cystic mass.