What is Mediastinal Schwannoma?
Mediastinal schwannoma is a rare type of benign tumour arising from neural sheath cells of the mediastinum’s peripheral or cranial autonomic nerves. It accounts for 9% of all mediastinal tumors.What is Mediastinum?
The mediastinum is a space in the thorax that contains the heart, thymus gland, portions of the esophagus trachea, and other structures.Causes
There is no reasonable cause; however certain hereditary and genetic mutations such as Carney complex, neurofibromatosis type 2, and inflammation of schwannoma cells can cause mediastinal schwannoma.Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- Pain in the chest
- Difficulty in breathing
- Persistent cough
- Mass in the chest
- Coughing up blood or spitting up blood
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are;- Imaging techniques like Chest X-ray, CT-scan, MRI, and PET scan to see the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Tumour biopsy (tumour biopsy to remove a small sample of tissue for histopathological examination)
- Sputum cytology
Treatment
Complete surgical resection (surgical removal of the part or whole of the tumour or affected organ) of the tumour is the main treatment option. Other treatment options are chemotherapy and radiation therapy.What Support can we Give for Mediastinal Schwannoma?
Mediastinal Schwannoma is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Mediastinal Schwannoma, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
