Acoustic Neuroma
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Introduction
An acoustic neuroma, also known as a vestibular schwannoma, is a benign growth that occurs along the 8th cranial nerve. This nerve actually consists of two separate nerves, the vestibular nerve and the cochlear nerve. The vestibular nerve controls balance, while the cochlear nerve is responsible for hearing. Acoustic neuromas usually arise from the cells of the 8th cranial nerve within the internal auditory canal. Most tumors arise on their own without any known cause. Patients with neurofibromatosis type II (NF2), a hereditary condition, may have an acoustic neuroma on both sides. Their tumors tend to be more aggressive than patients without NF2.
The symptoms of acoustic neuroma typically include hearing loss, ringing in the ears, dizziness, balance problems, or sensation of fullness or pressure in the ears. In addition, very large tumors can sometimes cause facial numbness or paralysis of one side of the face.
Anatomy of Acoustic Neuroma
Written by Damon E. Smith, M.D. – Radiation Oncologist