Acoustically

Acoustic Neuroma
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Hearing loss, tinnitus, balance disorder
Complications	Facial nerve paralysis, hydrocephalus
Onset	Typically between ages 30 and 60
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetic mutation
Risks	Neurofibromatosis type II
Diagnosis	MRI, CT scan
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Surgery, radiation therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	1 in 100,000 per year
Deaths	N/A

Acoustic neuroma, also known as vestibular schwannoma, is a benign tumor that develops on the vestibulocochlear nerve (cranial nerve VIII), which connects the inner ear to the brain. This nerve is responsible for hearing and balance, and the tumor can affect these functions.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common symptoms of an acoustic neuroma include:

• Hearing loss in one ear
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
• Balance disorder or unsteadiness
• Facial numbness or weakness (if the tumor presses on the facial nerve)

Causes

Acoustic neuromas are typically caused by a genetic mutation in the NF2 gene, which is responsible for producing a protein that suppresses tumor growth. This condition can be associated with neurofibromatosis type II, a genetic disorder that predisposes individuals to develop tumors on nerve tissues.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of an acoustic neuroma is usually confirmed through imaging studies such as:

• MRI
• CT scan

Treatment

Treatment options for acoustic neuroma depend on the size and growth of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatments include:

• Surgical removal of the tumor
• Radiation therapy, such as stereotactic radiosurgery

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with an acoustic neuroma is generally good, especially if the tumor is detected early and treated appropriately. However, untreated tumors can lead to serious complications, including facial nerve paralysis and hydrocephalus.

See Also

• Neurofibromatosis type II
• Vestibular system
• Cranial nerves

References

• National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
• Mayo Clinic

External Links

• American Academy of Otolaryngology