Acoustic Neuromas
This brain tumor is also called schwannoma, neurolemmoma
or neurinoma. It is typically a benign brain tumor that
comes from a balance nerve, which is part of the hearing
nerve. This tumor is located in the back part of the
skull in an area called the cerebello-pontine angle
or CP angle. This brain tumor tends to grow very slowly,
especially in the elderly. This is a relatively common
brain tumor; more than 2000 cases are discovered in
the U.S. each year. Acoustic Neuromas are most commonly
discovered in middle aged patients.
Acoustic Neuroma Symptoms
The most common symptoms of an acoustic neuroma include,
hearing loss on the side of the brain tumor, ringing
in the ear (known as tinnutis), balance problems and
headache. This brain tumor can also cause weakness of
the face.
Acoustic Neuroma Diagnosis
The best way to diagnose an acoustic neuroma is with
a magnetic resonance imaging scan (MRI).
Very small brain tumors can be found by MRI as long
as the pictures are obtained properly. Computerized
axial tomography scans (CAT)
can also be used but are much less able to find small
brain tumors. Once the brain tumor is detected, hearing
tests should be performed.
Acoustic Neuroma Treatment
The treatment of acoustic neuromas is different for
individual patients. In most patients an attempt is
made to remove the brain tumor using a microsurgical
technique. In some patients, stereotactic radiosurgery
may be the most appropriate treatment. In select patients
a course of observation with MRI taken every six months
or so might be reasonable. Each patient is individual
and treatment must be prescribed individually. Call
1-800-411-CINN or the location
nearest you between 8 AM and 5:30 PM Central
Time, Monday through Friday to schedule an initial consultation
with a CINN
physician.
More information about acoustic neuromas may be obtained
from the Acoustic
Neuroma Association or the American
Brain Tumor Association website.
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