An unusual cause of tarsal tunnel syndrome: Schwannoma of the posterior tibial nerve; a rare cause and rare localization

• Published in: International journal of surgery case reports 2022-07, Vol.96, p.107348-107348, Article 107348
• Main Authors: Elghoul, Naoufal, Elmokhtari, Kamal, Bouabid, Salim Ahmed
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Case Report; Pain; Posterior tibial nerve; Schwannoma; Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• ISSN: 2210-2612; 2210-2612
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2022.107348

Schwannoma of the posterior tibial nerve is extremely rare. A 25-year-old female with a one-year history of left foot pain is presented. Clinical and radiological findings were in favor of a tarsal tunnel syndrome caused by a schwannoma of the posterior tibial nerve, prompting the patient to undergo surgery. We performed a complete excision of the tumor with the aid of a loupe magnification. At the last follow-up, the patient did well, with no recurrent pain and no neurological squeals. The diagnosis of a tibial nerve schwannoma can often be difficult as, in the early stages, a mass may not be palpable and symptoms are often non-specific because of the slow-growing soft tissue mass. Although schwannoma is a rare cause of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it should be kept in mind by physicians, especially in cases of chronic unexplained foot pain with a positive Tinel's test. •Schwannoma of the tibial posterior nerve is exceptional.•Schwannoma's slow growth contributes to the delay in diagnosis.•The MRI scan is required in the case of chronic pain with tunnel test positive.•A microscope or a loupe magnification is helpful in order to perform a total excision of the tumor with no nerve damage.