Tracheal schwannoma: a misleading entity.

Primary tracheal tumors are rare with the majority being malignant. Benign lesions are less frequent with primary tracheal schwannomas accounting for less than 0.5% of tracheal tumors. They are more common in females and their clinical presentation is non-specific. Chronic cough, progressive respiratory distress and even asthma-like conditions prevail as presenting symptoms and signs. Laryngotracheal endoscopy reveals a solitary, well encapsulated mass arising most often from the posterior tracheal wall. The diagnosis of tracheal schwannomas is primarily pathological. Endoscopic excision, sleeve excision or tracheal resection, are all commonly accepted treatment modalities. Proper awareness of these lesions is crucial in the pre-operative work-up of patients presenting with stridor.