Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma)

Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma)

An acoustic neuroma, also called a vestibular schwannoma, is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that grows on the balance and hearing nerve (eighth cranial nerve), which connects the inner ear to the brain. These tumors are not common, but they are the most frequent type found near the brainstem. They usually grow slowly and do not spread to other parts of the body.

Symptoms:

The most common early symptom is hearing loss in one ear. Other symptoms may include:

  • Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
  • Feeling of fullness in the ear
  • Dizziness or balance problems
  • Headache
  • Numbness or weakness in the face (in larger tumors)

Causes:

Most acoustic neuromas occur by chance and affect only one ear. Rarely, they are linked to a genetic or familial condition called Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2).

Diagnosis:

An MRI scan is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis. Many tumors are now found earlier because of improved imaging.

Treatment depends on tumor size, growth, hearing, and overall health.

Options include:

  • Observation (“wait and scan”) – Small, slow-growing tumors can be monitored with regular MRIs.
    Radiation therapy – Focused radiation (such as Gamma Knife® or CyberKnife®) can stop the tumor from growing.
  • Surgery – Larger or symptomatic tumors may need to be removed through surgery. In some cases, part of the tumor may be left behind to protect nearby nerves.

Most vestibular schwannomas grow slowly. With regular monitoring and the right treatment plan, many people live normal lives with this condition.

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