Acoustic Neuroma
Also called Neurilemmoma, Vestibular Schwannoma or Neurinoma
Acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor of the nerve of hearing (the 8th cranial nerve). It is located in the angle between the cerebellum and the pons, in the posterior fossa (the back of the skull). This tumor usually grows very slowly. Acoustic neuromas usually occur in middle-aged adults, females are twice more likely to have this tumor than males. Acoustic neuromas account for fewer than 7.5% of all primary brain tumors. Although considered a neuroma, most are really schwannomas.
Common symptoms are one-sided hearing loss or buzzing or ringing in the ear. Dizziness may also occur, but is less common. If the tumor also affects the facial nerve (the 7th cranial nerve), facial paralysis can occur. Other symptoms include difficulty swallowing, impaired eye movement, taste disturbances, and unsteadiness. They usually become symptomatic after the age of 30, and at least 95% are unilateral.
Total surgical removal using microsurgical techniques is often possible. Stereotactic radiosurgery might be used as an alternative to surgery for some patients.
For more information regarding acoustic neuromas, contact the Acoustic Neuroma Association.
