Acoustic schwannoma

Acoustic schwannoma

Acoustic Schwannoma, also known as Vestibular Schwannoma, is a benign, usually slow-growing tumor that develops from the Schwann cells covering the vestibular nerve, leading from the inner ear to the brain. Despite its name, it affects the vestibular nerve, which is responsible for balance, rather than the acoustic nerve, which is involved in hearing. However, due to their close proximity, the tumor can affect both nerves, leading to hearing loss and balance issues.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Acoustic Schwannoma can vary greatly depending on the size and growth rate of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• Hearing loss, usually gradual and on one side
• Tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing noise in the ear
• Dizziness and loss of balance
• Facial numbness and weakness, in cases where the tumor presses against the facial nerve

Causes

The exact cause of Acoustic Schwannoma is unknown. However, a genetic condition known as Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) has been linked to the development of these tumors. NF2 is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the growth of noncancerous tumors in the nervous system, including Acoustic Schwannomas on both auditory nerves.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Acoustic Schwannoma typically involves a combination of:

• Hearing tests (audiometry) to assess the extent of hearing loss
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans to visualize the tumor
• Computed Tomography (CT) scans, in cases where MRI is not suitable

Treatment

Treatment options for Acoustic Schwannoma include:

• Observation, for small tumors that are not growing or causing significant symptoms
• Surgery, to remove the tumor, which may involve risks such as hearing loss and facial nerve damage
• Stereotactic radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife), a form of radiation therapy that targets the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding tissues

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with Acoustic Schwannoma is generally good, especially for those with small, slow-growing tumors. Surgical removal or radiation therapy can lead to a high rate of tumor control and symptom improvement, although there is a risk of complications such as hearing loss and facial nerve damage.

See Also

• Neurofibromatosis type 2
• Schwann cell
• Vestibular nerve
• Tinnitus
• Hearing loss