Schwannoma and nerve abscess of leprosy: differential diagnosis.

Schwannomas or neurilemomas are the most frequent nerve sheath tumours and could be mistaken for a nerve abscess of leprosy as presented in this case report. These tumours may affect any nerve in the body mainly in the flexor surfaces of limb and nerve trunks, often at origin of spinal or cranial nerves. They usually grow slowly and appear as painless swellings for several years before being diagnosed.