A case report of rectal schwannoma treated with laparoscopic proctectomy

RATIONALE Schwannomas of gastrointestinal tracts are rare and difficult to detect preoperatively because of negative results of endoscopic and imaging examinations. Here, we reported a case of rectal schwannoma, which was diagnosed by immunohistochemical staining after laparoscopic protectomy. PATIENT CONCERNS A 61-year-old woman complained of a 1-month history of difficulty in defecation and irregularly abdominal discomfort during her physical checkup in our hospital. DIAGNOSES Immunohistochemical staining results after laparoscopic protectomy revealed a strong positive reaction for S-100 protein. Therefore, rectal schwannoma was confirmed. INTERVENTIONS Treatment with laparoscopic protectomy was given. OUTCOMES Symptoms resolved completely after 12 days of the surgery, and was regular followed-up in outpatient clinic. LESSONS Schwannomas are difficult to identify preoperatively, and immunohistochemical staining for S-100 protein is an effective method to diagnose it.