Acoustic
Neuroma
What
is Acoustic Neuroma?
Acoustic Neuroma is a non-cancerous
tumor that may develop from an overproduction
of Schwann cells that press
on the hearing and balance nerves in the inner
ear. Schwann cells are cells that normally wrap
around and support nerve fibers. If the tumor
becomes large, it can press on the facial nerve
or brain structure.
What are
the Symptoms of Acoustic Neuroma?
The following are the most common symptoms
for acoustic Neuroma, however, individuals may
experience symptoms differently.
When a Neuroma
develops, it may cause any/all of the following:
-
hearing loss
-
tinnitus
-
dizziness
-
paralysis of
a facial nerve
-
life-threatening
problems in the brain
The symptoms of
acoustic Neuroma may resemble other conditions
or medical problems. Consult a physician for
a diagnosis.
What are
the Different Types of Acoustic Neuromas?
There are two types of acoustic Neuromas:
-
Unilateral
acoustic Neuromas affect
only one ear, and:
-
account
for 8 percent of all tumors inside the skull.
-
may
develop at any age, but most often occur
between the ages of 30 and 60.
-
may
be the result of gene damage caused by environmental
factors.
-
Bilateral
acoustic Neuromas affect
both ears, and:
-
are
hereditary, caused by a genetic disorder
called neurofibromatosis-2 (NF2).
-
develop
in the teens or early adulthood.
How are
Acoustic Neuromas Diagnosed?
Because symptoms of acoustic Neuromas
resemble other middle and inner ear conditions,
they may be difficult to diagnose. Preliminary
diagnostic procedures include ear examination
and hearing test. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans help
to determine the location and size of the tumor.
Early diagnosis
offers the best opportunity for successful treatment.
Treatment
for Acoustic Neuroma:
Specific treatment will be determined
by the physician(s) based on:
-
patient's age,
overall health, and medical history
-
extent of the
disease
-
expectations
for the course of the disease
-
patient's tolerance
for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
-
patient's (or
family's) opinion or preference
Treatment
may include surgery to remove small acoustic
Neuromas. Surgery for larger tumors is complicated
by the probable damage to hearing, balance,
and facial nerves. Another treatment option
is radiosurgery using carefully focused radiation
to reduce the size or limit the growth of the
tumor.
