Sandeep Kumar Kar, Tanmoy Ganguly, Riju Bhattacharya
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) in the head and neck region are exceptionally rare and pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. These tumors are known for their aggressive behavior and poor prognosis. Diagnosis of MPNSTs can be challenging due to the potential for misleading results from fine needle aspiration cytology, necessitating histopathological confirmation. The treatment of choice is surgical resection with wide and negative margins to ensure complete removal of the tumor. Adjuvant radiation therapy is recommended to enhance local control and potentially improve survival outcomes. Given the location, patients may present with large neck masses that complicate airway management during surgery. Awake nasal fiberoptic bronchoscopy is considered a safe method for securing the airway in these cases. This paper discusses the clinical presentation, diagnostic strategies, and perioperative considerations in the management of MPNSTs located in the neck.