Cavernous malformation of the hypoglossal nerve: case report and review of the literature

OBJECTIVE: To describe a patient who presented with a hypoglossal nerve palsy caused by a cavernous malformation, review the literature on cavernous malformations associated with cranial nerves and the differential diagnosis of hypoglossal palsy. RESULTS: Partial resection of the lesion was achieved and the diagnosis of cavernous malformation proven histologically. CONCLUSIONS: Involvement of a cranial nerve by a cavernous malformation is very uncommon and the facial nerve is the example most frequently reported. This case report adds another possible site for this rare occurrence.